To Copy Or Not To Copy

DISADVANTAGES

The use of this command on work that neither you created nor have the express permission of the IP owner is possible. The command will work for anyone that knows how to use it. There lies the potential for abuse. Bill Joy writes "Software is a tool, and as a toolbuilder I must struggle with the uses to which the tools I make are put."[4] The designers are aware of the problem, but it is impossible for the software to police unethical use. To deal with this problem, creation of associations such as ACM (Association of Computing Machinery). The ACM have a code of ethical behaviour for its members to abide by. The ACM code of ethics 1.5 states:"Violation of copyrights, patents, trade secrets and the terms of license agreements is prohibited by law in most circumstances. Even when software is not so protected, such violations are contrary to professional behaviour. Copies of software should be made only with proper authorization. Unauthorized duplication of materials must not be condoned."[5] Most companies require you to belong to an association with a similar code of ethics. Volition of association code of ethics could lead to expulsion. The ACM code of ethics 4.2 states:"Adherence of professionals to a code of ethics is largely a voluntary matter. However, if a member does not follow this code by engaging in gross misconduct, membership in ACM may be terminated"[5] No longer having an association membership could be grounds of termination. We can't stop the misuse but we can weed out those that would do such acts from further abuse.