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Why does tech feel so immoral?

Why does tech feel so immoral? I'm a computer science student having a change of heart regarding my degree. I don't think it's helping humans more than doing the opposite of that. I think I wanted to go for something that involves more activism like journalism or law. Fields which actually help solve world problems. I'm stuck and in need of direction. Someone please help me

computer-science career-choice careers tech careeradvice careerchange techforgood computersciencestudent activism socialimpact digitalethics techandhumanity
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Sarah’s Answer

Hi there! The fact that you are asking this question tells me that you are thinking seriously about the relationship between your career, your values, and the impact you want to have in the world. I would encourage you not to rush past that discomfort. Explore it.

Start by asking yourself a more specific question: What about technology feels immoral to me?

Is it how certain technologies are being used? The influence of large technology companies? Artificial intelligence? Privacy and surveillance? Environmental impact? Misinformation? Inequitable access? The displacement of workers? Something else?

Identifying exactly what troubles you, may help you determine whether you are questioning computer science itself or some of the choices people and organizations are making with technology.

You might also consider another possibility: Could the thing that concerns you become the thing you help change?

Technology needs people who understand it and are also willing to question how it affects human beings. There are opportunities to work in areas such as responsible AI, technology ethics, cybersecurity and privacy, digital rights, accessibility, public-interest technology, technology policy, civic technology, and responsible product development. Activism does not always require standing outside of a system. Sometimes changemakers work within a field and use their knowledge to challenge practices, advocate for people who may otherwise be overlooked, and create better alternatives.

At the same time, you should give yourself permission to consider journalism, law, or another field if those paths genuinely align more closely with your values and interests. Changing direction is not a failure. However, I would spend some time investigating those careers before assuming that another profession will resolve the ethical tension you are experiencing. Journalism, law, healthcare, government, business, and many other fields have their own difficult ethical questions. Technology and AI are also increasingly influencing nearly all of them.

You may even discover that your interests do not require an either/or decision. Someone who understands computer science and law, journalism, public policy, human rights, or ethics could bring an incredibly useful perspective to problems at the intersection of those fields.

Before changing your degree, give yourself an opportunity to explore. Talk with professionals doing technology-related work that serves the public good. Take a course outside of computer science that interests you. Research careers that combine technology and advocacy. Volunteer with an organization addressing an issue you care about. Pay attention to which experiences make you feel curious, energized, and purposeful.

Ultimately, no one else can tell you which career is consistent with your values. That is something you will have to determine for yourself. But I would not view your questions about technology as evidence that you do not belong in the field. They may be an invitation to think more deeply about what kind of person you want to be within it, or what kind of difference you want to make outside of it.

Whatever you decide, keep asking these kinds of questions. The world needs professionals in every field who are willing to think critically about not only what we can do, but what we should do. Disruption can be essential at times too.
Thank you comment icon Thanks for the advice, Sarah. As for your question. AI, surveillance, in equitable access. It all angers me. I think I really need guidance from someone who's working in tech. Will reach out to my professors once college resumes. Really appreciate the time you dedicated to write all this. Thank you Maha
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Cliff’s Answer

Maha,

I can certainly understand how you might feel that tech can feel immoral. The current sentiments towards AI, facial recognition, and data centers are all negative as of late. There are certainly areas of tech that can be misused and abused. That said, technology is a TOOL that can be used for tremendous good, but it can be abused like many other tools. Knives, cars, and guns can all be used for good, but they can be abused as well.

I've been in tech for decades and have seen many different advancements. I've seen the dawn of laptops, cell phones, facial recognition, and artificial intelligence. These have solved so many problems and have become ubiquitous - can anyone imagine life without cell phones now? I can't but we survived without them.

It's a very good deal they are raising these questions and working to put controls in place. I do think this will help curb issues with tech. That said, no amount of controls will prevent bad people from abusing tech. The real question is: Do you want to be on the inside and be part of the creation of amazing tools so you can understand them or do you want to stay on the outside and do something else with your life?

Tech is going to advance with or without you. Having people with morals working in tech is a great thing in my opinion. You have to decide and I wish you the best of luck with your decision.

Thanks for the question. Take care.
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Christina’s Answer

I completely understand where you are coming from with how things seem to be going currently! But behind all that, there are always people who are actively striving to make things better and their work contributes to helping make our world better.

Also tech doesn't also need to mean core-IT or engineering. You can always utilise your skills in fields such as healthcare or research.
Thank you comment icon Thanks for your input Christina :) Maha
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Morgan’s Answer

I understand why you might feel that way. The news about tech can seem scary, but remember, technology is just a tool. You can use it to make a big difference in areas like education, healthcare, climate, nonprofits, and public policy.

You can create change in almost any career by staying true to your values and not letting others sway you. The field you choose is important, but your choices, the problems you tackle, and how you treat others are even more crucial.

Before deciding to change your major, try exploring your interests through a job, internship, volunteering, or talking to people in those fields. You might discover that you don't have to choose between tech and making a difference, or you might find a new passion. Your skills can help solve the problems you care about.
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Eria Othieno’s Answer

Hi Maha, it's normal to feel uncertain about our work, especially when comparing ourselves to others. Remember, the impact you make, whether positive or negative, is in your hands, no matter your career path. I encourage you to be the positive change that technology needs. For instance, Human-Centered AI is about creating solutions that help society, even if some use AI differently. This idea applies to all fields. Keep pursuing what you love and excel at, and be the change your profession needs.

Aim to improve and be the change you wish to see. Best of luck!
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Rufino’s Answer

It may feel "immoral" because of who's in charge/power coupled with what their true endgame goals are. You can still go pursue tech while being the activist for good, for change. You can be that amazing person who is in a tech role that can actually change the world. The tech world (and the world) needs more Mahas. The future is wide open for you! You can become the person that builds a tech company that aids in regulating the industry in the pursuit of good! If your passion is in tech, I'd say stay in it and put an emphasis on how to make changes for the future of humanity. If it's not in tech, pursue the other routes you've mentioned of journalism or law. Sometimes, you can make a bigger impact on change when you're already on the inside. That doesn't mean you can't still make an impact while on the outside. Whatever route you decide to take, you've got the right mindset! Just remember to keep pushing through the storms. You'll hit a several during your journey. The storms always end. It's in the preparation for when each storm ends that will make the most of having endured them.
Thank you comment icon Really appreciate your advice, Rufino. I'm intrigued how you mentioned building a tech company that aids in regulating the industry in the pursuit for good. You see, I've never really had a thing for working in a company and I've always wanted to do something of my own. What'd you suggest I do from now on if I really want to build a tech startup like this. Considering that I'm a junior year computer science student in university where everyone's just so dependent on AI that they'd snort on ideas like these. Should I reach to a professor with my ideas, or share them with like minded individuals online to build the right circle or share the idea with tech fellows in uni? Maha
Thank you comment icon With the tech we have now available to us, I would building out something first (personally). If you've got an idea already brewing in your mind, build out an MVP (minimal viable product). Then, you can then reach out to others. There's no better way to start than by using the "immoral" tech against itself. We all have this power available to us. It all depends on how and what we use it for. Also, what does your gut/intuition tell you? While it's great to collect advice, it's ultimately going to be your decision on what to do next. If something doesn't feel quite right, don't continue to follow that advice. You always have control of the choice you make. Just remember that what you say "yes" to, you've also said "no" to something else. Rufino Cudia
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Pavana’s Answer

Hi Maha, People here have already answered your question so well, here's two cents of what I feel about this :)

We need more people in tech who stand up for right things, who bring forward diverse perspectives. We need people like you!

Sociological lens is a need in tech we are building today, I encourage you to look up "SolarPunk"! Revolutionary Tech is so so important. Also, please go easy on yourself. I know the rage that comes with how things are evolving, but the rage alone can't get us anywhere. Gotta turn hopecore. Being happy and hopeful IS revolutionary : )

I have been in your shoes often, and I have been focusing more on AI Safety. With the way tech is advancing, it infact becomes more demanding to learn everything about it and bring in diverse lens to the table while drafting policies about it and executing them at top level. There's AI Policy making, AI Ethics, AI Governance - multiple allied branches that lets you explore technology from a holistic perspective.

Again, this is only something I'm suggesting if Technology is what you were excited about and wanted to explore as a kid or as passion. If being in tech truly doesn't align with your purpose, it might be a good option to investigate how you'd like to make change. Sarah had put it together so beautifully! But yes, change can be brought through any fields :)
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Destiny’s Answer

Hi Maha,

I understand struggling with the ethical problems in the tech world, especially when your career is in Computer Science. I think tech may feel evil right now because we're starting to uncover the many issues involved in tech design, and its impact on people. But I've often felt that technology itself isn't evil: what matters is how we develop it and use it. There are many positive applications for tech, too!

Your Computer Science degree could still give you ways to help others. It could even open doors, because you can be part of the movement towards building healthier technologies. With your background in Computer Science, you'd know firsthand how algorithms work and how to build safer ones.

There are tons of organizations out there, such as The Ethical Tech Project, the Center for Humane Technology, All Tech Is Human, and many others. You can get involved with these and similar groups which are focused on building ethical technology. One of the groups I volunteer with has computer programmers and developers who share ethical tech tools!

If you do feel you need to switch to a different career, though, it's very possible to minor in another subject that's closer to your passions. If you are really drawn to activism or other areas where you help people directly, you should definitely explore that! But as Sarah mentioned, you may not need to change your entire path to make a positive difference. You can still do a lot to help people with your Computer Science knowledge.

You can also choose another kind of degree, since there's nothing wrong with taking a different path. However, you should try to be aware of any consequences or things to consider before making that change. I myself switched from business to health science, because I didn't feel my business studies were really helping people in the way I wanted. But I knew it would also take me longer to graduate when I made that switch, so I accepted that as part of the change. If you decide to switch from Computer Science to another major, make sure you are prepared for the time and energy which goes into making this decision.

Hope these tips are helpful, and whatever path you choose, I wish you good luck on your journey!

Destiny recommends the following next steps:

Check out ethical tech organizations, and learn from their websites about ways you can volunteer and get involved.
Find positive ways to use your Computer Science degree (for example, building healthier designs for apps).
Choose a minor in another field that you are passionate about (such as activism, journalism, or ethics).
Thank you comment icon Really appreciate your input, Destiny. I've been researching about people, books that have been written about how technology isn't really for the benefit of the people. And was surprised why I didn't know of these organizations you mentioned above. You mentioned that there's a group you volunteer with, can you please share more details about it or help me connect with it somehow. Would really appreciate the help :) Maha
Thank you comment icon Hi Maha, I'm glad that input helped! Yeah, these are all good organizations to explore for getting involved in the ethical tech world. Fortunately, there's a lot more out there than the big tech companies. The group I volunteer with is called Design It For Us. On their website, you can join their coalition if you want to get involved in advocacy. Or you can just learn from the reports and info they share! One of their initiatives is an Innovators' Circle, where computer programmers share their designs for healthier tech apps: https://designitforus.org/campaigns/innovator-circle/ That's a great example of people who want to make positive products. Destiny Hankerson
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Jason’s Answer

Tech can mean so many different things and, like most things in life, you can find examples at the extremes.

For example, there are plenty of areas in tech that are focused on saving lives, curing diseases, helping communities to organize, facilitating education, etc.

Obviously, there are extremes in the negative direction as well, such as tech that fuels war-mongering, mass surveillance, propaganda, etc.

The point is, tech is neither moral/immoral or good/evil on its own. It's what you choose to do with it that matters. You can't necessarily prevent others from doing things with tech that you don't agree with, but you can choose to work on something that is meaningful to you.
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Yoav’s Answer

It is completely understandable to feel conflicted right now, and it actually shows how deeply you care about making a positive difference in the world. Tech can feel incredibly cold or even harmful when we see it used for various algorithms, data tracking, or replacing human connection, but it is important to remember that tech itself is just a powerful tool driven by the intentions of the people behind it. If you step back, computer science is actually essential for modern activism, human rights journalism, and legal reform, whether that is developing secure tools for whistleblowers, analyzing data to expose systemic injustice, or building accessible medical tech. You do not have to abandon your skills to do meaningful work; instead, you can pair your technical background with your passion for ethics by exploring fields like civic tech, cybersecurity for non-profits, or algorithmic fairness. Your conscience is a strength, not a distraction, so trust that thoughtful inner voice to guide your path and good luck as you shape a career you can be proud of.
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Amanda’s Answer

Hey! I can relate to the question you posed above. I have a Computer Science degree with an emphasis in Software Engineering. I completed my degree, but during my junior year, I began questioning whether it was the right decision for me. I decided to explore something code-adjacent and found myself leading projects — first as a project manager, then as a program manager. I found it far more satisfying to work directly with people, bridging the gap between clients and coding teams. From this position I felt that I had a different perspective from most of my team on the use of technology. I feel that for me it was important to stick in the industry to provide a not so common perspective and to help ensure that my perspective was heard/considered for the direction of new projects.
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Jayda’s Answer

I can relate to you! I faced a similar choice in college when I had to decide on a career path. I ended up changing my plans, and that's perfectly fine.

Choosing a career is about finding what matches your values. If something feels off, pay attention to it. Think about why you feel that way and what matters most to you. Consider what kind of impact you want to have in the world and look for careers that align with those values. You might be surprised by what you find, but it's worth exploring.

There are so many ways to help people through different career paths. Take your time to figure it out; there's no need to rush. Your job affects your health, loved ones, and those you interact with, so it's an important choice. You're asking the right questions. Wishing you the best!
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Tyrone ’s Answer

When I think about technology, I see that you have the potential to achieve more for the world than in the other careers you have considered. The most important thing is to choose what you truly want to do. Don't study something just for the title or the money; do it because you are passionate about it. As a lawyer or a journalist, you might enter a system that doesn't change much. If you want to help the world, technology offers you more opportunities to do so.
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Hongfei’s Answer

Tech itself is neutral, but people can be messy. I develop AI solutions, and AI is currently being applied to every field. We need people who actually care, like you, to stay in this industry and make sure that the AI integrated into a lawyer's computer is not biased and follows all the procedures. AI has absorbed all the biases we had as humans, and we really need to fix it. Tech is center stage if you want to solve world problems. Be the change you want to see in the world.
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Matthew’s Answer

A lot about tech can easily be seen as immoral. It can invade your privacy, extract significant data about you, and cause addictions, among many other, well-documented problems. But, in and of itself, technology is just a tool. What it is used for, and how it is used is what's important.

You could write software to power weaponry, or you could write software that better analyses prostate cancer samples, helping to identify signs of prostate cancer at ever earlier stages of development. In both cases, you're writing software. But, what that software does is completely different. One harms. One helps.

As you're already studying computer science and have a strong desire to affect positive change, consider looking for ways to combine both. As to how, one way might be to get in contact with community groups already working toward positive change in the areas that mean most to you and talk with them about how your skills could help them.
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Wes’s Answer

I'm curious what you're experiencing as a student that leads you think of tech as immoral. Doing something in activism is certainly valuable. But even activists and journalists use tech in one way or another to get their goals accomplished. I would consider taking what you love to learn and finding a way to do it in a field you enjoy being in.

Taking your CS skills to a tech company may feel immoral where taking the same skills to journalism or activism could feel very rewarding.
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Sudhir’s Answer

The Attention Economy: These platforms aim to capture people's interest, often prioritizing algorithms that spark strong emotions over those that share thoughtful ideas.

Growth at All Costs: Silicon Valley's motto, "move fast and break things," means new products often launch without fully considering their impact on society or individual well-being.

Enshittification: As platforms evolve, they often shift from benefiting users to maximizing profit, leading to too many ads, limited features, and a less enjoyable experience.
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Gary’s Answer

Great question -- and don't worry, you are not alone. Try thinking of it this way: what are you passionate about? If it's computer science or tech, then you should do that and be the person who changes that world. We need people like you, whatever you choose to do. I was a journalist for years and loved it, but any professions has challenges. Just always be true to yourself and you will be fine. In fact, you will be great!
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TRAVIS’s Answer

Tech isnt immoral. It simply "is". Is a rock, animal or plant immoral? It simply exists. Tech is a tool and using it for good or bad it up to the user. Join and help guide its future and help determine how it is used.
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