The ability to connect computers via networks has popularized the concept
of working at home. What are some pros and cons of this movement? Will it
affect the consumption of natural resources? Will it strengthen families? Will
it reduce “office politics”? Will those who work at home have the same career
advancement opportunities as those who work on site? Will community ties
be weakened? Will reduced personal contact with peers have a positive or
negative effect?
Q299: Ordering merchandise over the Internet is becoming an alternative to “hands
on” shopping. What effect will such a shift in shopping habits have on communities?
What about shopping malls? What about small shops, such as bookstores
and clothing stores, in which you like to browse without buying? To what extent
is buying at the lowest possible price good or bad? Is there any moral obligation
to pay more for an item in order to support a local business? Is it ethical to compare
products at a local store and then order your selection at a lower price via
the Internet? What are the long-term consequences of such behavior?