Chapter 17: Ethical Issues

Much attention has been given to the ethical issues of mass media as they relate to issues of racial and gender stereotypes and the individuals of various demographics are portrayed in ways that often marginalize them. Despite improvement, the lack of representation in media continues to be a significant challenge. The rise of the internet has created new challenges related to privacy and surveillance, as new technologies have made it easier than ever to monitor, track, and monetize user data. Plagiarism and copyright infringement have emerged as major ethical and legal challenges in this era.

These dynamics underscore the urgent need for robust guidelines and safeguards that balance technological progress with ethical standards and individual rights. Cory Doctorow’s concept of “enshittification” provides a framework for understanding the lifecycle of digital platforms like TikTok, Amazon, and Twitter. Initially, these platforms prioritize delivering value to attract and build their user base. Inevitably, the focus shifts toward generating higher profits, and this harms the user experience and causes a decline of quality content. This situation highlights the critical tension between technological self-determination and profit motives. Upholding principles such as technological self-determination and the “freedom of exit” is essential for users to maintain control over their digital environments, advocating for approaches that prioritize user needs and ethical considerations.