CS 459 Social Implications in Computing

The First Paper: Additional Instructions

Topic: You should select a particular topic drawn from the areas we have discussed thusfar: namely risks, privacy, and intellectual property. You should not try to tackle one of those entire subjects, you should pick an aspect of it and dig in deep. An example might be: how to solve the spam problem. You are expected to have references, and they should be listed properly. Current events provide a fine source for information and ideas, and there are also many other books and other sources in the library which could be of help.

Guidelines: The paper should be written using a suitable editor, and reflect the expertise of the author in quality of the prose, neatness of the document, proper spelling and use of grammar, and in the compelling use of logic throughout. I expect some nontrivial development of ideas; if you can do that in three pages, that is fine. Otherwise you should write until you've developed the ideas you need to develop, without writing to pad the size. I'd rather see a good three page paper than a poor ten page paper. Please use 12 point font size for the text; either single or double spacing is fine.

Grading: This paper represents twenty-five percent of the grade in the course; remember that what you turn in represents you to me, and I must grade what I have at hand. The paper will be graded on both content (this includes appropriateness of topic and references, use of logic, and your conclusions) and readability (this includes grammar, formatting, spelling, and subheadings). Subheadings are often helpful (even in short papers) to provide some organization. I encourage you to use the style and format of an article you have read recently--one in which you thought the presentation was particularly clear.

Milestones:

I. (5 points) Please turn in a short abstract/summary of your planned paper on Monday, February 25, at the beginning of class. This abstract should have three paragraphs:

  1. The motivation and background for the issue raised in your paper;
  2. The perspective(s) you wish to present regarding the issue you are addressing, whether philosophical, ethical, or social;
  3. Any strategies you wish to suggest on ways to improve the situation raised by the issue.

You are encouraged to seek me out the week of February 25-March 1 for feedback on your writing. On Monday March 4 I will return comments on abstracts and any other paper drafts I receive by Friday March 1, 5pm.

II. (20 points--10 each for content and clarity) Please turn in a hard copy of your final paper at the beginning of class on Monday, March 11. As described above, this should be an elegant, thoughtful, and logical exposition on a major concern regarding computers and social and/or ethical issues.