Ethical Issues in Data Harvesting: Theories and Recommendations

This report delves into the ethical issues associated with data harvesting, particularly within the context of a political campaign utilizing a private organization to analyze voter data. It explores how companies collect and utilize personal information, raising concerns about data privacy and the potential for misuse. The report examines ethical frameworks such as utilitarianism, deontology, virtue ethics, and contractarianism to analyze the ethical implications of data harvesting. It highlights the conflict between maximizing profit and respecting individual rights, ultimately recommending adherence to ethical principles and established procedures to mitigate potential ethical concerns. The report underscores the importance of responsible data handling to protect customer information and maintain public trust.