The Ethics of Information Operations
Document Type
Conference Proceeding
Faculty
Faculty of Computing, Health and Science
School
School of Computer and Information Science / Centre for Security Research
RAS ID
5944
Abstract
The underlying objective of information operations (information warfare) is to achieve ‘information superiority’ over all perceived opponents. Achieving this can involve such activities as manipulating digital systems, deception, surveillance, propaganda, influence, psychological operations and data hiding. This paper will examine the positive and negative ethical implications of such practices. It posits that the end result and motives for these activities are paramount in determining the ethical outcomes. However, it also recognizes that ‘the end justifies the means’ has some dangerous implications.
Comments
Hutchinson, W. (2008). The Ethics of Information Operations. In Proceedings of the Australian Institute of Computer Ethics Conference. Burwood, Victoria, Australia: School of Information Systems, Deakin University.