Assignment 4
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Jan 9, 2024
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Uploaded by ChefFlyMaster953
The issue highlighted in the article revolves around the adoption of online voting in Indigenous
communities in Canada, particularly among First Nations. This issue is significant in the context
of cyber ethics as it raises questions about the ethical consequences of using technology to
increase the participation of Indigenous peoples in government processes.
This issue is significant for our study of cyber ethics as it focuses on technology, governance,
and Indigenous rights. It raises moral concerns about the equitable implementation of technology
to improve underprivileged communities, such as Indigenous peoples. In cyber ethics, access,
justice, privacy, and autonomy are only a few of the ethical implications of technology in society
that are considered. In this instance, it helps us explore whether restricting internet voting in
Indigenous communities is consistent with ethical principles of justice, autonomy, and
inclusivity.
There are several important factors to consider when weighing the advantages and disadvantages
of giving Indigenous populations the chance to participate in community-focused online
elections. Online voting has many benefits, one of which is that it provides an easy and
convenient choice, especially for Indigenous community members who live off-reserve. This
accessibility lowers obstacles to involvement, which may lead to increased voter participation
and engagement. Such inclusivity is in line with the moral precept of fairness, which emphasizes
the value of giving everyone an equal opportunity to take part in the democratic process. Online
voting can also strengthen Indigenous communities' autonomy by enabling them to implement
important pieces of legislation. This empowerment is consistent with the moral value of
autonomy. This principle emphasizes how important it is for communities to have the autonomy
to choose their governing structures and make choices that are representative of their needs and
values.
The possible negative effects of online voting on Indigenous populations must be recognized,
nevertheless. It's possible that not all members of the community have access to dependable
internet connections or digital gadgets due to the restrictions imposed by the Indian Act and the
First Nations Election Act, which can give those who do an unfair advantage[ CITATION
Lia17 \l 1033 ]. This digital divide poses ethical concerns related to fairness and equity as it is
crucial to make sure that technological advancements do not disadvantage some members of the
community, especially those who are already excluded. Furthermore, the adoption of online
voting could undermine cultural elements within Indigenous communities by upsetting long-
standing political principles and practices. This creates moral concerns about upholding cultural
values and heritage. To respect and accommodate the cultural and historical components that are
essential to Indigenous communities, care must be given when implementing online voting.
By addressing important components of the reconciliation process, internet voting can play a
crucial role in improving reconciliation efforts in Canada. Firstly, it is in line with the
reconciliation principle of Indigenous self-determination[ CITATION Dof23 \l 1033 ] . Online
voting gives Indigenous communities the liberty to exercise choice and make decisions about
their government by allowing them to select their preferred voting methods. Secondly, by
removing obstacles to participation, internet voting encourages inclusion. It provides a
convenient and accessible way for off-reserve Indigenous members to have their voices heard in
community decisions, and in reconciliation processes, ensuring that all diverse perspectives are
considered. Finally, online voting promotes positive dialogue and teamwork within Indigenous
communities, encouraging understanding and cooperation among numerous aspects of the
community[ CITATION Dan21 \l 1033 ].
The ethical ideas of utilitarianism and deontology have been used to ground this discussion.
Online voting supports well-being in this setting by improving access, participation, and
community engagement, which are all values of utilitarianism[ CITATION EWe19 \l 1033 ].
Deontology emphasizes the value of individual rights and autonomy granting Indigenous
communities the freedom to select their own governance practices, online voting is consistent
with Kantian ethics[ CITATION CCr19 \l 1033 ].
References
[1] N. G. Liam Midzain-Gobin, “Reforming the indian act to allow for online voting,” Policy
Options, https://policyoptions.irpp.org/magazines/october-2017/reforming-the-indian-act-
to-allow-for-online-voting/ (accessed Oct. 8, 2023).
[2] D. of J. Government of Canada, “Principles respecting the government of Canada’s
relationship with Indigenous Peoples,” Government of Canada, Department of Justice,
Electronic Communications, https://www.justice.gc.ca/eng/csj-sjc/principles-principes.html
(accessed Oct. 8, 2023).
[3] D. Dakin, “Research shows online voting could be transformative for indigenous
communities,” The Brock News, a news source for Brock University,
https://brocku.ca/brock-news/2021/05/research-shows-online-voting-could-be-
transformative-for-indigenous-communities/ (accessed Oct. 8, 2023).
[4] E. Westacott, “What are the three basic principles of utilitarianism?,” ThoughtCo,
https://www.thoughtco.com/basic-principles-of-utilitarianism-3862064 (accessed Oct. 8,
2023).
[5] C. Cressman, A. Brown, and J. Kranak, “Kantian deontology,” Introduction to Philosophy
Ethics, https://press.rebus.community/intro-to-phil-ethics/chapter/kantian-deontology/
(accessed Oct. 8, 2023).
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