Hacker News Reader

Arguably software engineering compared to engineering in a broader sense has a bigger issue with the “we did this because we could, not because we should” attitude.

I feel like a “formalised ethical code” would result in more clever approaches of avoiding it. We don’t need to look far to find the examples (looking at ya ad tech)

View on HN

But what's the incentive for doing that? What are you offering to those who work on adtech for them stop or to those who do work for $EvilCorp.

I think it would have to start with either regulation or customers requiring it.

I.e., contractually require someone licensed (where the license carries an ethic standard) or legally require it in areas that are 'in the public interest'

Moral decency doesn't warrant reward.

Then why should I comply with your sense of morality, if you have nothing to offer?

I only ask that you develop your own sense of morality and abide by it.

The entire point of a code of ethics is to provide a strong minimum standard to keep the morally bankrupt in line. We don't write them for moral people.

Does if you fine the company millions when the building falls down

Reply on news.ycombinator.com