The article by Angelica Sofia Valeriani explores the ethical implications of Surveillance Capitalism through the lenses of Utilitarianism and Kantian Deontology. It argues that while Utilitarianism may justify this practice in the name of maximizing happiness, Kantian ethics firmly opposes it by emphasizing the significance of human dignity and the necessity of informing individuals about the use of their data. Valeriani highlights that respecting individuals as ends in themselves is critical, and any exploitation without awareness for profit undermines ethical obligations.
Utilitarianism can rationalize the means of Surveillance Capitalism by prioritizing collective pleasure, whereas Kantian ethics firmly rejects it, emphasizing the moral dignity of individuals and informed consent.
Kantian ethics criticizes Surveillance Capitalism for violating human dignity, arguing that using individuals purely for profit undermines their inherent worth and the ethical obligation to inform them.
The Kantian framework allows targeted ads as long as individuals are aware of how their data is used, contrasting sharply with utilitarian justifications that overlook individual rights.
Utilitarianism might excuse privacy invasions if it maximizes happiness for the majority, but Kant’s deontological perspective insists on respecting individual moral agency and dignity in the process.
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