Social Impact of Computers

This book provides a comprehensive treatment of such major social issues as computer crime, intellectual property rights, privacy, free speech, access, and work from both an American point of view as well as those of other countries. New material in the Third Edition includes a description of the long antitrust proceedings against Microsoft, issues related to the downloading of music and video files, attempts to control controversial content on the Internet, increasingly dangerous viruses and worms, and security issues following the terrorist events of September 11, 2001. Computer applications in such areas as business, medicine, education, and government are critically reviewed with respect to their related social implications. The opening three chapters include a brief history of computers and computation and a discussion of the role of technology in contemporary society. The book concludes with an overview of issues related to ethics and professionalism for computer scientists. KEY FEATURES: * Presents comprehensive coverage of important social issues related to computers and the Internet * Covers Internet security issues post 9/11 * Discusses intellectual property issues related to downloading music and video files * Outlines free speech issues related to Internet content * Discusses increasing threats to individual privacy of Internet users * Covers possible ethical challenges for computer scientists * Includes a critical examination of computer applications and associated social implicationsRosenberg, Richard S. is the author of 'Social Impact of Computers', published 2004 under ISBN 9780125971218 and ISBN 0125971214.