Responsible and Ethical IS

Track Chairs
Cheng Suang, Ph.D., National University of Singapore
Anne-Françoise Rutkowski, Ph.D., Tilburg University
Anjana Susarla, Ph.D., Eli Broad College of Business, MSU

Track Description
Information Systems (IS) play a crucial role in shaping organizational practices, societal values, and individual experiences. As IS becomes more integrated into everyday life, it is vital to explore the complex intersections of technology, ethics, and social responsibility. This raises important questions, such as how IS can bridge or exacerbate digital diversity, inclusivity, and equity. A responsible design approach that prioritizes equitable access is essential. Ethical considerations in IS extend beyond innovation, as organizations face challenges in balancing technological advancement with responsibility. Leaders must manage workplace transitions carefully to ensure that automation benefits society rather than deepening economic divides. While open-source software fosters collaboration, it also presents ethical risks when accountability is unclear, complicating responsible IS development. Similarly, the rise of AI and machine learning technologies adds complexity, as they can both support and undermine ethical IS practices. Further inquiries include how IS can promote responsible consumerism and protect user agency in data-driven environments. Privacy and information security are increasingly threatened in a world where data and innovation can be weaponized by autocratic regimes or misused by corporations. This makes it crucial for regulatory frameworks and organizational leadership to work together in fostering accountability and social responsibility. The dilemma of AI-driven decision-making, where questions of accountability and transparency arise, is another pressing concern. As automation reshapes work, fears about deskilling and job displacement grow. As IS continues to evolve, lessons from unethical practices and interdisciplinary perspectives are essential in shaping responsible IS frameworks. Continuously revisiting these ethical concerns will help ensure that technology enhances innovation while upholding human values and societal well-being.