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Ethical Decision Framework

This MicroSim provides an interactive tool for evaluating the ethical quality of quantum computing investment claims. It applies four key ethical dimensions — Truthfulness, Transparency, Responsibility, and Fairness — to help students, investors, and policymakers assess whether a claim meets basic standards of ethical communication.

Each dimension is rated on a scale from 1 (poor) to 5 (excellent). The framework calculates an overall ethical score and renders a verdict ranging from "Ethically Concerning" to "Exemplary."

Ethical Decision Framework MicroSim

View Ethical Decision Framework MicroSim Fullscreen

Use the sliders to rate a specific quantum computing claim across all four dimensions. Notice how the color-coded bars shift from red through yellow to green as scores improve. The verdict panel at the bottom synthesizes the individual ratings into an overall assessment. Try evaluating a recent press release or investment pitch to see how it scores.

How to Use This Framework

  1. Find a claim — select a quantum computing press release, investor pitch, or news article.
  2. Rate each dimension — move the sliders to reflect your honest assessment of the claim.
  3. Read the verdict — the overall score reveals whether the claim meets ethical standards.
  4. Compare claims — evaluate multiple claims to see which organizations communicate more ethically.

Ethical Dimensions Explained

  • Truthfulness: Is the claim factually accurate? Are performance numbers verifiable? Does it distinguish demonstrated results from theoretical projections?
  • Transparency: Are technical limitations, error rates, and timeline uncertainties disclosed? Or are they buried in footnotes?
  • Responsibility: Does the claim acknowledge financial risks to investors? Does it present a balanced view of potential outcomes?
  • Fairness: Does the claim consider opportunity costs — what else could be done with the same investment? Are alternative technologies compared honestly?