SCIENCE &

TECHNOLOGY ETHICAL
DILEMMAS
GROUP 2
 Sentencing Software
Helix
Sentencing Software – refers to computer programs
Helix – is a digital app store that is created
used in the criminal justice system to assist judges
in order to help a person read there
in determining appropriate sentences for individuals
genome. The new wave of digital

What is the
convicted of crimes. These tools often analyze
genomics is all about optimizing your
various factors, such as the severity of the offense,
body and mind and preparing for your
criminal history, and mitigating circumstances, to

S&T issue
future.
provide sentencing recommendations. However,
concerns about bias and transparency have been

all about?
raised, leading to debates about the ethical use of
such software in legal decision-making

Science & Technology Ethical Dilemmas

What factors or events led to the introduction of this S&T?

-SENTENCING SOFTWARE-

• The introduction of helix-based science and technology in sentencing software is likely influenced by
advancements in forensic genetics and DNA analysis. Events such as the increased use of DNA
profiling in criminal investigations, the improvement of forensic techniques, and the expanding DNA
databases have contributed to the integration of helix-related technologies in the criminal justice
system, aiding in more accurate and reliable assessments for sentencing purposes.
What ethical dilemmas does the introduction of the science and
technology assigned to your group pose?

• The introduction of science and technology in helix and sentencing software brings about ethical dilemmas, including:
1. Algorithmic Bias - The use of advanced algorithms may introduce biases if the training data reflects historical injustices, potentially leading to
discriminatory outcomes
2. Lack of Transparency - The complexity of advanced algorithms can make them less transparent, raising concerns about accountability and the ability to
understand how decisions are reached.
3. Invasive Data Collection - The incorporation of advanced technology might involve extensive data collection, raising privacy concerns if individuals are
not adequately informed or if the data is misused.
4. Unintended Consequence - The introduction of new technologies may have unforeseen consequences, and if not carefully managed, these could contribute
to systemic issues within the criminal justice system.
5. Social Implications - The use of advanced technology in sentencing decisions may have broader societal implications, influencing public trust in the justice
system and perceptions of fairness.
6. Access to Technology - Socioeconomic disparities in access to technology may further exacerbate existing inequalities if certain groups have limited access
to tools or information used in the sentencing process.

Science & Technology Ethical Dilemmas

 WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO QUESTION THE MORAL AND ETHICAL
ISSUES SURROUNDING THE ASSIGNED S&T?

It is important to question these issues surrounding the Helix Digital app to ensure the
well-being of individuals, protect privacy, and promote a society that upholds ethical
values. Although the app claims to prioritize user privacy, the potential for misuse and
HELIX unauthorized access to this data cannot be ignored. The question of who has access to
this data, how it is stored, and for what purposes it is used must be raised. By doing so,
we can protect the well-being of individuals, preserve user privacy, and promote a
society that upholds ethical values.

Questioning the moral and ethical issues surrounding

sentencing software is crucial to ensure fairness,
accountability, and the elimination of biases in the criminal
justice system. By critically examining the potential pitfalls SENTENCING
and unintended consequences, stakeholders can work towards
developing algorithms that improve the system rather than SOFTWARE
perpetuating injustice. Ultimately, any technological
advancement in the criminal justice system should be guided
by the principles of justice, fairness, and societal values, with
the aim of enhancing human judgment rather than diminishing
it.

Science & Technology Ethical Dilemmas

In the face of this new S&T innovation, why is it important to
study Science, Technology, and Society?
STS PREPARES STUDENTS TO TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR ISSUES RELATED TO SCIENCE
AND TECHNOLOGY. WITH THIS KNOWLEDGE COMES IDEAS AND BETTER UNDERSTANDING
OF THE ISSUES. YOU CAN ALSO UNDERSTAND THE INTENTIONS OF THE PRODUCERS.

UNDERSTANDING THAT THE ISSUE “HELIX” GIVES SOCIETY A GREAT CHANCE TO HELP US
UNDERSTAND OURSELVES, HELIX CAN HELP US TO IDENTIFY PREDISPOSITIONS FOR
CERTAIN DISEASES, LEARN ABOUT OUR GENES AND CHARACTERISTICS, DISCOVER OUR
ANCESTRY AND MORE.

AS FOR THE ISSUE "SENTENCING SOFTWARE", IT IS IMPORTANT TO STUDY SCIENCE

TECHNOLOGY AND SOCIETY TO BETTER UNDERSTAND AND IMPROVE THIS TECHNOLOGY
IN ORDER TO REMOVE ITS IMPURITIES, INCONSISTENCIES, AND BIASES. A PROPER AND
FAIR CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM IS A MUST ESPECIALLY NOW THAT CRIMES AND
CRIMINALS HAVE EVOLVED AND HAVE BECOME MORE SOPHISTICATED AND DIFFICULT TO
UNDERSTAND.

Science & Technology Ethical Dilemmas

thank you