Can We Trust the Computers?
Are We Too Dependent on Computers?Many ordinary daily activities are dependent on computer networks.
Are criticisms of "dependence on computer" fair?
Some misconceptions about dependence on computers come from a poor understanding of the role of risk, confusion of "dependence" with use, and blaming computers for failures where they were only innocent bystanders. On the other hand, abdication of responsibility that comes from overconfidence or ignorance is a serious problem. Valid when a system is designed so that a failure in one component can cause a major breakdown.
Dependence or use.
When we have a good tool, we may forget or no longer learn the older method of performing a task. But the negative effects of a breakdown do not condemn the tool. The inconveniences or dangers of a breakdown are a reminder of the convenience and productivity provided by the tool when it is working.
Risk.
We trust our lives to technology every day. Risk is not restricted to technology and machines. Mistakes made in software are the same as those that used to be common in engineering. But important differences between computers and other technologies: computer make decisions; electricity does not.Making Trade-offs When Perfection Is Not an OptionSoft is complex. How close to perfection should we expect our systems to be? At some point, the expense of improving a system is not worth the gain, especially for applications where errors can be detected and corrected at lower cost than it would take to try to eliminate them.
Conclusions:
Many of issues related to reliability of computers have arisen before with other technologies.Perfection is not an option.There is a learning curve for new technologies.Risks of using computer should be compared with risks of other methods and with benefits obtained.
source: http://www.ncat.edu/~testa/COMP390/chapters/Chapter4.
