The UK government has taken the first step in providing a solid grounding for the future of data science ethics. Recently, they published a “beta” version of the Data Science Ethical Framework.

The framework is based around 6 clear principles:

  1. Start with clear user need and public benefit
  2. Use data and tools which have the minimum intrusion necessary
  3. Create robust data science models
  4. Be alert to public perceptions
  5. Be as open and accountable as possible
  6. Keep data secure

See the above link for further details. The framework is somewhat specific to the UK, but it would be nice to see other countries/organizations adopt a similar framework. Even DJ Patil, U.S. Chief Data Scientist, has stated the importance of ethics in all data science curriculum.