Digital Media: Ethical Issues Arising

   As indicated by the Ethical and Legal Issues in Selling chapter of the Professional Selling textbook, there are nine questions that should be asked in making an ethical decision (Weitz 2004). The first question is, “Would I be embarrassed if a customer found out about this behavior?” Second, “Would my Supervisor disapprove of this behavior?” Third, “Would most employees find it unusual?” Fourth, “Am I about to do this because I think I can get away with it?” Fifth, “Would I be upset if someone did this to me.” Sixth, “Would my family or friends think less of me if I told them about engaging in this activity?” Seventh, “Am I concerned about the possible consequences of this behavior?” Eighth, Would I be upset if this activity made the front page of the newspaper?” Ninth, “Would society be worse off if everyone engaged in this behavior or activity (Weitz, 2004)?” 

   The questions emphasize that ethical behavior is determined by widely accepted views of what is right and wrong. The answers to the previous questions shouldn’t be answered with a “yes.” Thus one should only engage in activities and jobs that he or she would be proud if family, friends and future employers were to view the design. Before taking a job one should investigate the background of the company and their procedures to see whether they conflict with his or her personal ethical standards. Although investigations do not always show the true color of a specific design project, it is the designer’s place to do the investigation to see if there is a mesh between their own ethical morals and what is required by the project.

   In conclusion, I believe that social responsibility is driven first by ethics and integrity of the designer’s work and their personal moral compass. If they can be true to themselves in these areas they have gone a long way toward providing socially responsible work. The internet will be the most important means of communications for future generations. Ethical, social responsible designers and content creators are not just needed – they are required.

Works Cited

1. Strauss, J. (2003). E-Marketing. New Jersey: Prentice Hall

2. Weitz, B. (2004). Selling: Building Partnerships. New York: McGraw-Hill.

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