The Association of Computing Machines (ACM) is one of the oldest professional bodies in the ICT
sector. You have been asked to study their code of ethics and professional conduct in order to
create a presentation that will be shared with all the employees at your company.
What are the ACM’s Professional responsibilities
According to the ACM's Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct, the following are the professional responsibilities of ACM members:
1. Ethical conduct: Members should abide by the highest standards of ethical behavior, integrity, and accountability. They should act honestly, responsibly, and ethically in all professional endeavors.
2. Professional competence: Members should strive to maintain and improve their professional knowledge and skills continuously. They should stay updated with technological advancements and best practices in their respective fields.
3. Personal integrity: Members should be truthful, objective, and fair in their professional judgments and actions. They should avoid conflicts of interest and disclose any potential conflicts that could compromise their professional judgment.
4. Respect for privacy and confidentiality: Members should respect the privacy and confidentiality of individuals and organizations. They should ensure that personal or proprietary information is protected and not disclosed without consent or legal authority.
5. Respect for the intellectual property: Members should respect intellectual property rights and ensure that they use or distribute such property in a lawful and ethical manner. They should acknowledge and give proper credit to the creators and owners of intellectual property.
6. Honoring confidentiality: Members should protect and secure any confidential or proprietary information entrusted to them by employers, clients, or colleagues. They should not use such information for personal gain or unauthorized purposes.
7. Professional and social responsibility: Members should contribute to society and human well-being by applying their knowledge and skills. They should ensure that their work is beneficial, does not harm others, and promotes the greater public good.
8. Avoid harm: Members should be aware of the possible consequences of their work and take reasonable steps to minimize harm. They should prioritize safety, security, and well-being over financial or other concerns.
9. Fairness and non-discrimination: Members should recognize and respect the diversity and individuality of individuals, irrespective of factors such as race, gender, religion, nationality, etc. They should avoid discrimination and ensure equal access to opportunities and resources.
10. Compliance with laws: Members should abide by the laws and regulations governing their professional work. They should not engage in any illegal or unethical activities.
These professional responsibilities provide a framework for ethical behavior and set standards for ACM members to follow in their professional lives.