A4 Refereed article in a conference publication
Problem of Power: The Missing Agent
Authors: Olli Heimo, Jani Koskinen, Ville Kainu, Kai Kimppa
Editors: Elizabeth A. Buchanan, Paul B. de Laat, Herman T. Tavani and Jenny Klucarich
Conference name: Ambiguous Technologies: Philosophical Issues, Practical Solutions, Human Nature Proceedings of the 2013 Computer Ethics, Philosophical Enquiry (CEPE) Conference
Publication year: 2013
Journal: Computer Ethics - Philosophical Enquiry (CEPE) proceedings
Series title: CEPE
Number in series: 10
First page : 160
Last page: 169
Procurement of critical governmental information systems does not work. We get systems that are dangerous, either directly or indirectly, or do not work or cost more than they should. We need Habermasian discourse in which all groups affected are given a voice to solve this issue. Unfortunately, the current law, at least in Finland, but the situation is likely similar elsewhere, as the Finnish law is based on EU directives forbids even the possibility for a Habermasian discourse and actually directs the current players, namely the government office and the producer to play strategic games. The attitude in society and especially in the government offices procuring critical government information systems must be internationally directed towards open Habermasian discourse on the procurement of systems and then the laws need to be changed and the Habermasian discourse implemented.