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RailsConf 2018: Lessons in Ethical Development I Learned From Star Wars by Jameson Hampton Star Wars fans may have been excited about 2016’s release of Rogue One because of the courageous new rebel characters it introduced, but it also provided a lot more insight into the Empire's Corp of Engineers and how they ended up building the Death Star. As developers, we have a responsibility to think about the ethical implications of our work and how it might be used. This session will discuss ways of deciding for yourself what kinds of projects you are or aren't comfortable working and tips for self-accountability in your career - through the lens of characters we know and love from Star Wars.
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In this RailsConf 2018 session titled "Lessons in Ethical Development I Learned From Star Wars," speaker Jameson Hampton explores the ethical responsibilities of software developers through the lens of the Star Wars universe. By analyzing the narratives and characters from the series, especially Rogue One, Hampton emphasizes the moral dilemmas that arise in technological development and the importance of being proactive in determining one's ethical boundaries in a tech career. Key Points Discussed: - The ethical implications of programming: Hampton discusses the results of a developer survey indicating that many programmers feel a duty to consider the effects of their code, reflecting on how the Star Wars universe blurs the line between heroism and villainy. - Importance of awareness: Hampton argues that just because one identifies as a good person, it does not absolve them from potential complicity in unethical projects, as exemplified by characters like Galen Erso from Rogue One, who unknowingly aids in the creation of the Death Star under false pretenses. - Moral reflection: Through various examples, including real-world parallels such as inventors regretting their creations (like the developer of the AK-47), Hampton urges developers to think about their work's potential misuse and the broader societal impact. - Personal ethical guidelines: Hampton suggests that developers should not wait for a crisis to define their moral boundaries, encouraging them to outline their values in advance and to be transparent about their choices. - Practical steps for accountability: The speaker presents strategies such as taking time to consider ethical decisions before acting and maintaining a record of one’s moral reflections to guide future choices. - The narrative of redemption: Hampton relates the journey of characters like Agent Kallus, showcasing that it is possible to shift allegiances and pursue ethical paths even within corrupt systems. Conclusions & Takeaways: - Developers must actively engage with the ethical implications of their projects, understanding that ignorance is not a valid defense against unethical outcomes. - Each person must determine their boundaries regarding the kinds of projects they are willing to work on, ideally before being confronted with challenging ethical decisions. - Finally, through introspection and dialogue, developers can cultivate a culture of ethical accountability in their workplaces, encouraging similar values in their peers.
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