Analogical reasoning happens when we look for familiar situations and compare them to those involving computer technologies. We then either accept certain actions or identify the differences between them. There are pros and cons to using analogical reasoning.

One benefit to using analogical reasoning is being consistent with morals. If you think it is morally wrong to break into someone’s car, you would also think it is wrong to break into someone’s laptop. Using analogical reasoning in this aspect allows you to apply what you think is morally wrong or right and apply it to computer technology. You may also use it in other areas of ethics such as business, health care or law.

Another benefit to using analogical reasoning is to measure the benefits or consequences of each action you do in computer technology. Say you work in an office setting and your computer just stopped working. There is no way to get your computer working or fixed before tomorrow morning. You have a business proposal to research, type and submit before the end of the day. One of your coworkers is on vacation this week and their computer is free to use. You may sit and think if you use their computer what problems this may cause. You may get in trouble by your supervisor for not asking, you may break a company policy or you may uncover personal information your coworker has on their computer. But you will also be in trouble for not completing your proposal by the deadline. You may think that no one will care if you use it because no one cares if you use their computer without asking at your own home. You will have to consider the benefits and consequences of your ideas and decide how you will approach the situation.

Analogical reasoning also has dangers involved. One of these dangers is failing to recognize important differences. An example of this is a hacker thinking he is doing justice by showing flaws in software or operating systems. Society is trained to think that anyone who gains entry without permission into something (or some place) is breaking and entering. Therefore, the hacker with good intentions is looked upon as a thief, a con and/or a snoop.

Another danger to using analogical reasoning is not being able to draw the line between business and pleasure. You may think that since they are emailing their boss after hours about important details concerning a meeting he could not attend, they do not have to be “as professional” as they are in person. You may not use correct grammar, spelling or have a sense of humor you normally do not possess in her/his presence.

In conclusion, analogical reasoning does have pros and cons when applied to computer technology. It is extremely important to evaluate the pros and cons and what consequences each one will have. Make sure your decision is one that you will be able to live with.

This article is original content written by Tanya L. See. Reproduction of this content maybe used on any website as long as it is copied in it's entirety and credit is given to Tanya L. See and a link to her website, www.tanyasee.com , is included.