Case study: The University of Minnesota is banned from Linux

Before starting this experience, please go through all of the “Foundations” readings and experiences.

On April 21, 2021, the University of Minnesota was banned from contributing to the Linux kernel. The circumstances surrounding this event pose interesting ethical questions into software development.

To familiarize yourself with this situation, please read the following:

• How a University got itself banned from the Linux Kernel (The Verge, Apr 30, 2021)

• Statement of Apology from the University of Minnesota researchers (UNM website, Apr 24, 2021)

• Hacker News commentary on the Statement of Apology

• What qualifies as “exempt” research?.

Questions for discussion

1. Did the University of Minnesota researchers violate any of the ACM Code of Ethics? For example, consider Principles 1.2, 1.3, 1.5, 3.6, and 3.7.

2. Was Greg Kroah-Hartman wrong in banning the University from contributing to Linux? Justify your answer by reference to one or more principles in the ACM Code of Ethics.

3. As a University, what is the University of Minnesota ethically obligated to do now? Justify your answer by reference to one or more principles in the ACM Code of Ethics.