Background: In moral theory, the capabilities approach says that we ought to enh
ID: 449501 • Letter: B
Question
Background: In moral theory, the capabilities approach says that we ought to enhance human capabilities in order to enhance human autonomy and individuals' capacity for living a good life. In development programs, the capabilities approach has been used to argue for increased access to education, health care, and training programs, since such programs are believed to enhance individuals' capacities and allow them to live well and to increase their ability to choose how to live (one aspect of autonomy).
On this view, there are some capability-enhancing goods that ought to be available to everyone. Examples include access to education, access to clean water and healthy food, and access to adequate shelter. Other goods might benefit only a small group of people but are seen as necessary or desirable to ensure that the individuals whom they benefit have capabilities similar to their fellow citizens. Examples of such goods might include wheelchairs for persons with certain kinds of physical impairments or Braille books for persons with visual impairments.
Not surprisingly, this approach has become popular in some aspects of computer ethics since, arguably, various kinds of computer technology greatly increase human capabilities in morally valuable ways.
Directions: Write two types of digital technology that you believe enhance human capabilities in morally valuable ways atleast one and a half page. In your discussion, say who is benefited--i.e., does the technology you discuss benefit everyone or does it benefit only a particular group, and why? In other words, whose capabilities are enhanced by the technology? What are the good consequences of the technology being widely distributed?
Explanation / Answer
Digital Technologies have helped in enhancing human capabilities in many ways. The impact of it can be felt in every walk of life. For example, spreading of education, health care services to and from a remote location and change in communication from analog to digital mode contribute in enhancing human capabilities. It is truly reflected in new achievements and breakthroughs achieved by intellectual pools across the globe.
One of the prominent digital technology that has brought in revolutionary changes in education is the VSAT (Very Small Aperture Terminal) technology. It is used to communicate voice and other forms of data from one location to many different locations at the same time without losing the quality of communication. It led to the many top colleges / universities to offer vocational and professional training programs with the use of VSAT systems. It caused many students to enroll, learn and progress in their career in their own city without taking the burden of relocation while pursuing an education. Besides, it made education to affordable and easy access for all who want to learn in a cost effective manner. Besides, it reduces the education divide between people and social issues are resolved in long terms. Thus, education acts as a mean to bring in prosperity in society and it is facilitated by VSAT Technology.
It is offered to everyone who fulfill the basic eligibility criteria set by colleges / universities and or training institutions. Due to its broadcast in many cities at one point of time, every eligible person deemed fit for the course can take the benefit. Doe to affordable fees, entry barrier is also low. Thus, capability of the youth of the nation is enhanced by the technology.
Another example is taken of mobile / remote technology in health care where doctors and health care specialist sit at remote locations and give medical treatment from remote locations. With the advancement of internet and telecommunication, healthcare services are also improvised. Now, cure of many diseases has been found that were considered non curable few years back. As a part of latest development, doctors perform surgery through remote location through the use of digital technology. Thus, access to best in class healthcare is enhanced due to reduce barriers of distance, time and location. It is available to those groups of people who can afford such services. Also, it is selectively available in some of the hospitals. It has enhanced the capabilities of healthcare professionals that have befitted the people who suffer from acute diseases / problems. A variant of this technology is also used when a mobile medical van visits to rural areas and look after the health of people. At that time also, specialist doctors sitting at remote location treated people who are residing in rural areas.
The positive consequences of the technology being distributed are as follows:
1. Building knowledge / intellectual pool with superior skill sets
2. Reducing Inequality between people in a society
3. Increased access to the information
4. Improving quality of life that enhances happiness as well as prosperity in a society
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