The Avengers Initiative (Practical Ethics for Software Engineers)

In a world run by computers, software engineers hold extraordinary power – often without realizing it. What are we doing with our real-world superpowers?

This talk explores what ethical responsibility looks like in the day-to-day life of a typical software engineer. Using real-world data, firsthand stories from the speaker, and concrete true examples from the industry at large, we’ll examine what happens when teams stay silent in the face of harmful decisions and how small actions by individuals can create meaningful change.

We’ll cover topics like:

• Real-world statistics illustrating systemic inequality in the software industry
• How to speak up effectively and safely as an individual contributor or leader
• Mentoring and supporting the next generation of software engineers
• Using your skills and your social capital for good through volunteering and advocacy

Key Takeaways:

• A clearer understanding of how ethical issues show up in everyday engineering work
• True stories from the biggest companies in the industry showing the consequences of ethical silence
• Actionable ways engineers can create positive impact