Some Ethicists Think That Rather Than Evaluating New Technology as Good

question 20

Multiple Choice

Some ethicists think that rather than evaluating new technology as good or bad, we should evaluate it as a good or bad social experiment to try. Which of the following cases might show problems with treating technology as social experiment?

• A) Stem cell therapy because it involves unethical experimentation
• B) Cell phones because once the experiment begins, it cannot be stopped
• C) Autonomous killer robots because we cannot control the experiment
• D) Truman dropping bombs on Japan because it would never satisfy requirements of ethical experiment but would satisfy criterion for acceptable military action

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Definitions:

Hand Washing

The act of cleaning the hands with soap and water or hand sanitizer to prevent the spread of infection.

Lather

The frothy foam created by agitating soap with water, commonly used for cleaning or bathing.

Rings and Watches

Personal jewelry items worn on fingers and wrists that can pose safety hazards or interfere with medical procedures if not removed.

Hot Water

Water heated to a temperature suitable for bathing, washing, or cooking.