Western Governors University (WGU) ICSC2211 D684 Introduction to Computer Science Practice Test

The ACM Code of Ethics emphasizes the responsibility of computing professionals to prioritize the public good in their work. This commitment is vital as it directly ties to ethical decision-making and the broader impact of technology on society. By prioritizing the public good, computing professionals acknowledge the potential consequences of their work on individuals and communities, striving to use technology in ways that enhance, rather than harm, the public.

This approach fosters a sense of moral responsibility and accountability, encouraging professionals to consider how their actions might affect users and society at large. Emphasizing that access to computing and communication resources should be justified only by the benefits it brings to the community encourages ethical practices that reflect a dedication to enhancing societal welfare.

In contrast, the other options either misrepresent the ethical priorities set forth by the ACM or do not align with the principles of responsible and ethical computing practices. For example, sharing knowledge freely typically aligns with the spirit of collaboration and advancement but does not inherently capture the essence of the public good as stated in the ACM Code of Ethics. Similarly, limiting collaboration and focusing solely on profit over user privacy directly contradicts the core values of ethical responsibility and integrity that the ACM Code seeks to promote.