A

AUDIT COURSE REPORT

ON

“ETHICS AND VALUES IN IT”

SUBMITTED TO THE SAVITRIBAI PHULE UNIVERSITY, PUNE

IN PARTIAL FULFILMENTN OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR
THE AWARD OF THE

SECOND YEAR ENGINEERING (INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY)

BY

Miss. Pathak Sejal Prakash 69 S1901008609

Miss. Pawar Komal Santosh 70 S1901008620

Miss. Pawar Poonam Ganpat 71 S1901008621

Miss. Temgar Shravani Pravin 75 S1901008653

Under Guidance of
Prof.P.S.Hase

DEPARTMENT OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

AMRUTVAHINI COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, SANGAMNER

A/P: GHULEWADI, SANGAMNER, AHMEDNAGAR, PIN - 422608

YEAR 2024-25
 DEPARTMENT OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

AMRUTVAHINI COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, SANGAMNER

A/P: GHULEWADI, SANGAMNER, AHMEDNAGAR, PIN - 422608

YEAR 2024-25

CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that Audit Course report entitled

“ETHICS AND VALUES IN IT”

Is submitted as partial fulfillment of curriculum of the S.E. of information technology

BY

Miss. Pathak Sejal Prakash 69 S1901008609

Miss. Pawar Komal Santosh 70 S1901008620

Miss. Pawar Poonam Ganpat 71 S1901008621

Miss. Temgar Shravani Pravin 75 S1901008653

Prof.P.S. Hase Prof.R.B. Pawar Dr.B.L. Gunjal

Audit Course Guide Audit Course Coordinator HOD IT
 Savitribai Phule Pune University

CERTIFICATE
This is to certify that
Miss. Pathak Sejal Prakash 69 S1901008609

Miss. Pawar Komal Santosh 70 S1901008620

Miss. Pawar Poonam Ganpat 71 S1901008621

Miss. Temgar Shravani Pravin 75 S1901008653

Students of S.E. Information Technology was examined in Audit Course report entitled

“ETHICS AND VALUES IN IT”

DEPARTMENT OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

AMRUTVAHINI COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING, SANGAMNER

YEAR 2024-25
 Certificate by Guide
This is to certify that

Miss. Pathak Sejal Prakash 69 S1901008609

Miss. Pawar Komal Santosh 70 S1901008620

Miss. Pawar Poonam Ganpat 71 S1901008621

Miss. Temgar Shravani Pravin 75 S1901008653

Has completed the Audit Course work under my guidance and that, I have verified the work
for its originality in documentation, problem statement, literature survey and conclusion
presented in seminar work

Place: Sangamner Prof.P.S.Hase

Date: 08/11/2024 AVCOE, Sangamner

 Acknowledgement

It is our proud privilege and duty to acknowledge the kind of help and guidance
received from several people in the preparation of this report. It would not have
been possible to prepare this report in this form without their valuable help, co-
operation and guidance. The Report on “Ethics and Values” was very helpful to
us in giving the necessary background information and inspiration.

First and foremost, we wish to record our sincere gratitude to the management of
this college, to respected Principal, HOD of department for her constant support
and encouragement in the preparation of this report and for the availability of
library and laboratory facilities needed to prepare this report. We are very grateful
to our HOD Dr. Gunjal B.L. Our sincere thanks to Prof.R.B.Pawar for his
valuable suggestions and guidance throughout the preparation of this report and
help as a Audit Course coordinator.

We express our sincere gratitude to our guide, Prof.P.S.Hase for guiding us in

investigations of these Audit course activities and in carrying out experimental
work. Our numerous discussions were extremely helpful. We hold her in esteem
for guidance, encouragement and inspiration received from her. They make us
more studious and bolder. Thanks, lot, for their guidance. We enjoyed working
with her and inspired lot from her. Last but not the least We wish to thank our
parents for financing our studies and helping us throughout for achieve perfection
and excellence. Their personal help in making this report and seminar worth
presentation is gratefully acknowledged.
 Abstract

Ethics and values serve as the foundation of human behavior and societal structure,
guiding individuals and communities in making decisions that align with principles
of right and wrong, fairness, and justice. Ethics refers to the systematic study and
application of moral principles, helping people discern between acceptable and
unacceptable behaviors. Values, on the other hand, are personal or cultural beliefs
about what is important, shaping one's priorities, actions, and sense of purpose.
Together, ethics and values not only contribute to individual character development
but also influence social cohesion and trust, as they establish expectations for
mutual respect and accountability. The interplay between ethics and values
becomes particularly significant in professional environments, where ethical
guidelines help navigate complex situations and prioritize collective well-being
over personal gain. By fostering a culture of ethical awareness and value-driven
choices, societies can aim for a more equitable, sustainable, and harmonious future.
 Table of Contents

Sr. No Topic Page N

1. Introduction 1-2
2. Definitions and Key points 3
3. Importance of Ethics and Values 4
4. Core Human Values 5-6
5. Role of Education in Ethics 7
6. Ethics in Daily Life and Profession 8

7. The Future of Ethics and Values 9-10

8. Conclusion 11
9 References 12
 1.Introduction
Ethics and values form the backbone of human interactions and societal harmony,
providing a framework for understanding and evaluating actions, decisions, and
motivations. Rooted in philosophy and moral reasoning, ethics is a branch of
study that seeks to define what is right and wrong, guiding individuals toward
responsible behavior and fostering trust and respect within communities. Values,
on the other hand, are deeply ingrained beliefs and priorities shaped by culture,
personal experiences, and societal norms. Together, ethics and values influence
every aspect of human life—from personal relationships and professional conduct
to legal systems and global diplomacy.

In a complex, interconnected world, the importance of ethics and values has

become even more pronounced. The rapid advancement of technology,
globalization, and shifting social dynamics have introduced new challenges that
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require a moral compass to navigate. Issues such as privacy rights, environmental
stewardship, and corporate responsibility raise critical questions about our shared
responsibilities and the ethical boundaries we must consider. Consequently,
values like honesty, integrity, respect, and empathy play a crucial role in guiding
ethical behavior and fostering environments where individuals and groups can
coexist peacefully.

Ethics and values are not only essential at the individual level but also impact
organizations, governments, and communities. For example, businesses today are
increasingly held to high ethical standards, with consumers and stakeholders
expecting transparency and accountability. Governments, too, are expected to
create policies that align with human rights and social justice. Educational
systems around the world emphasize character development alongside academic
achievements, recognizing that values-based education helps mold responsible,
compassionate citizens.

Furthermore, the relationship between ethics and values is dynamic, as values can
evolve based on changes in society, culture, and individual understanding. While
certain core values remain universally respected—such as fairness, compassion,
and justice—different cultures and communities may interpret ethical principles
differently, leading to diverse applications of these concepts. Despite these
variations, the collective pursuit of ethical behavior and value-driven choices
fosters social cohesion, contributes to individual fulfillment, and encourages a
more compassionate society.

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 2.Definition and Key Concepts
Ethics and values in Information Technology (IT) are crucial frameworks that
guide professionals in making responsible, fair, and morally sound decisions
within their field. Ethics in IT refers to the principles of right and wrong that
govern the conduct of professionals, influencing their decisions, behaviors, and
interactions within and outside the workplace. It encompasses issues such as data
privacy, intellectual property, cybersecurity, digital divide, and accountability.
For instance, ethical IT professionals respect user privacy, ensuring sensitive data
is safeguarded against unauthorized access or misuse. Values, on the other hand,
represent core beliefs and standards that drive individual and organizational
actions, shaping their culture and priorities. In IT, key values include honesty,
integrity, respect for others, social responsibility, and a commitment to
transparency. Together, ethics and values form a moral compass that guides IT
professionals as they encounter complex issues like data manipulation, AI bias,
cybersecurity threats, and conflicts of interest. The fast-evolving nature of
technology amplifies these ethical dilemmas, as IT professionals constantly face
new challenges regarding the implications of emerging technologies, like artificial
intelligence and big data, on society. The integration of ethics and values into IT
practices is not only about adherence to legal regulations but about fostering trust
and reliability within the industry and among the public. By upholding ethical
principles and values, IT professionals contribute to building a responsible digital
ecosystem that respects user rights, promotes equitable access to technology, and
fosters innovation in a way that benefits society as a whole.

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 3.Importance of Ethics and Values
The importance of ethics and values in Information Technology (IT) cannot be
overstated, as they are foundational to building trust, ensuring accountability, and
safeguarding the public’s interest in a highly interconnected digital world. Ethics
provide a moral framework that guides IT professionals in making responsible
decisions, particularly when dealing with sensitive issues such as data privacy,
cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. With vast amounts of personal
information being processed daily, ethical guidelines ensure that user data is
respected, secured, and protected from misuse, creating a sense of safety and trust
between the public and technology providers.

Values like honesty, transparency, and social responsibility drive professionals to

prioritize the well-being of society over personal or corporate gain, thus helping
to reduce incidents of data breaches, digital fraud, and unethical behavior. These
values foster a culture of integrity within organizations, encouraging employees
to act with honesty and respect for all stakeholders. They also promote inclusivity
and equity, ensuring that advancements in technology are accessible and
beneficial to diverse populations, helping to bridge the digital divide rather than
widening it.

Furthermore, ethical behavior in IT upholds accountability, as professionals

recognize their role in preventing and addressing the potential harm that their
work could cause, whether through biased algorithms, unauthorized surveillance,
or cybersecurity threats. It also promotes transparency, which is especially
significant with emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, where decisions
made by algorithms need to be explainable and fair. Adherence to ethics and
values in IT enables a responsible, user-centered approach that balances
innovation with public trust, benefiting society and paving the way for sustainable
technological progress. In essence, ethics and values are crucial for creating a
digital environment where technology serves humanity ethically, respectfully, and
responsibly.

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 4.Core human values
Core human values are fundamental beliefs that guide behavior and
interactions, fostering mutual respect, cooperation, and social harmony. Here
are some of the most universally recognized core human values:

1. Honesty
Honesty involves truthfulness, transparency, and integrity. It fosters trust,
strengthens relationships, and builds a foundation for respect and
cooperation.

2. Respect
Respect means acknowledging the dignity, rights, and perspectives of
others. It involves valuing diversity, treating others with kindness, and
appreciating differences.

3. Responsibility
Responsibility is about being accountable for one’s actions, fulfilling
duties, and being reliable. It involves taking ownership of decisions and
understanding their impact on others.

4. Compassion
Compassion involves empathy and a genuine concern for others' well-
being. It is the drive to help, support, and alleviate suffering, creating a more
understanding and caring society.

5. Fairness
Fairness is the commitment to justice and equality. It means treating others
impartially, avoiding favoritism, and striving for balanced outcomes that
respect everyone’s rights.

6. Courage
Courage is the ability to face challenges, fears, or difficult situations with
resilience and integrity. It involves standing up for one’s beliefs and taking
risks when necessary for ethical reasons.

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7. Integrity
Integrity is about consistency between one’s values, beliefs, and actions. It
means acting ethically, even when no one is watching, and upholding moral
principles.

8. Kindness
Kindness is the quality of being gentle, generous, and considerate. It fosters
positive interactions, promotes goodwill, and creates a supportive
community.

9. Gratitude
Gratitude involves appreciating what one has and recognizing the kindness
of others. It cultivates a positive outlook and encourages mutual appreciation
in relationships.

10. Perseverance
Perseverance is the value of persistence, even in the face of obstacles. It
fosters resilience, helping individuals overcome adversity and pursue goals
with determination.

These core human values form the ethical foundation for positive
relationships, personal growth, and a just society. They are timeless
principles that are essential to both individual well-being and
collective harmony.
 5.Role of Education in Ethics

Education plays a pivotal role in fostering ethical awareness and values among
individuals, especially in fields like Information Technology (IT), where the
decisions made by professionals can have wide-reaching impacts on society.
Teaching ethics in IT provides students with the knowledge and skills to identify
and navigate complex moral dilemmas, such as data privacy, intellectual property,
and cybersecurity. It equips them with a moral framework that encourages
responsible decision-making, emphasizing the need to balance innovation with
respect for individual rights and societal well-being.

Through ethics education, students learn the importance of values like honesty,
integrity, transparency, and social responsibility, which guide them in their future
professional interactions. Education fosters critical thinking and reflective
judgment, encouraging students to question the ethical implications of
technology-related decisions, especially when dealing with emerging
technologies like artificial intelligence and big data. By engaging with real-life
case studies and ethical scenarios, students become better prepared to face
challenges such as data misuse, algorithmic bias, and issues of equity in
technology access.

Moreover, ethics education in IT creates a sense of accountability among students,

emphasizing that their professional actions carry significant responsibility. It
encourages them to consider the impact of their work on users, communities, and
society as a whole. This sense of responsibility also extends to understanding and
adhering to legal and professional standards, creating a culture of compliance and
trustworthiness in the industry.

Ultimately, the role of education in ethics is to empower future IT professionals

with not only the technical skills but also the moral and ethical compass needed
to navigate the rapidly evolving digital landscape responsibly. By embedding
ethics into the core of IT education, institutions help ensure that the next
generation of professionals will prioritize ethical principles, fostering a
technology-driven world that aligns with societal values and promotes public
trust.

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 6.Ethics in Daily Life and Profession
Ethics play an essential role in both daily life and professional settings, guiding
people in making choices that reflect integrity, respect, and responsibility. In daily
life, ethics help individuals build trustful relationships, make fair decisions, and
act in ways that align with personal values and societal norms. For example, in
friendships, ethical principles like honesty, loyalty, and respect foster strong,
healthy bonds, while at home, values such as responsibility, kindness, and
empathy create a nurturing environment. Ethical behavior in everyday situations,
such as returning lost items, being truthful, or respecting others’ privacy,
establishes a foundation of trust and reliability that benefits both individuals and
communities.

In professional settings, ethics are equally vital, shaping the way individuals
interact with colleagues, clients, and the broader organization. Ethical behavior in
the workplace promotes a culture of accountability, respect, and transparency,
which is crucial for building a positive reputation and fostering a productive
environment. For instance, in fields like healthcare, finance, and technology,
adhering to ethical standards ensures that professionals act in the best interests of
clients and society, preventing harm and upholding public trust. Ethical practices
in the workplace include honesty in communication, integrity in work tasks,
respect for others’ ideas and contributions, and accountability for one’s actions.

Furthermore, ethics in both daily life and work settings help individuals navigate
complex situations by providing a moral compass that guides decision-making.
They encourage people to consider the impact of their actions on others, fostering
a sense of social responsibility and empathy. This alignment of personal and
professional ethics ensures that individuals act consistently with their values,
creating a sense of authenticity and credibility that others can rely on. In essence,
ethics in daily life and profession are not just guidelines but foundational
principles that shape interactions, build trust, and ultimately contribute to a more
just and respectful society.

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 7.The Future of Ethics and Values
The future of ethics and values is becoming increasingly complex as technology,
globalization, and cultural shifts reshape societies. As rapid advancements in fields
like artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and data analytics bring unprecedented
possibilities, they also present new ethical challenges. In this evolving landscape,
ethics and values will play a crucial role in guiding how humanity balances
innovation with societal well-being, ensuring that progress aligns with principles like
fairness, transparency, and accountability.

One significant aspect of the future of ethics involves adapting to emerging

technologies. Ethical guidelines will need to address concerns around AI decision-
making, data privacy, surveillance, and genetic manipulation. For instance, as AI
systems become more integrated into daily life—impacting job markets, healthcare,
and personal freedoms—there is a pressing need for frameworks that prevent biases,
protect individual rights, and maintain human oversight over critical decisions. This
will require collaboration between technologists, policymakers, and ethicists to
establish standards that are not only legally sound but also ethically aligned with
societal values.

Globalization will also impact the future of ethics, as diverse cultural perspectives
on values and morality shape global policies and practices. As companies and
technologies operate across borders, a one-size-fits-all approach to ethics may no
longer be viable. Instead, ethics will likely evolve to embrace cultural diversity,
creating frameworks that respect different cultural values while upholding universal
principles such as human rights, equality, and environmental sustainability. This shift
could foster more inclusive and empathetic approaches to ethics, helping to build
consensus on shared global challenges like climate change, poverty, and human
rights.

In the future, ethics education will be paramount, empowering individuals with the
skills to make thoughtful, responsible decisions in complex situations. Ethics
education will likely become more integrated into various fields, equipping
professionals in technology, healthcare, business, and other sectors to consider the
ethical dimensions of their work. Additionally, as values evolve to address new
societal needs, education systems may emphasize adaptability, critical thinking, and
moral reasoning to prepare future generations for an ethically responsible life in a
rapidly changing world.
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In essence, the future of ethics and values is about creating flexible yet resilient moral
frameworks that adapt to societal changes while preserving core principles of respect,
integrity, and social responsibility. By prioritizing ethics, societies can navigate an
uncertain future with a sense of purpose, ensuring that technological and cultural
advancements enhance human welfare and foster a more just and compassionate
world.

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 8.Conclusion

In Conclusion, ethics and values are foundational to both individual lives and society,
guiding behavior in ways that promote trust, accountability, and social harmony. As
technology advances and the world becomes increasingly interconnected, ethics and
values will be more critical than ever, providing moral direction in an era of rapid
change. The future demands that we integrate ethics into education, professional
practices, and technological innovations to navigate complex challenges responsibly.
By upholding core principles such as fairness, transparency, and respect for diversity,
societies can harness progress to enhance human welfare and foster a world grounded
in integrity and compassion. Ultimately, the commitment to ethics and values is
essential for creating a just, inclusive, and resilient society capable of meeting the
evolving needs of humanity.

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 9.References

https://www.google.com/
https://unacademy.com/
https://testbook.com/

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