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I have recently seen various calls to take a stand as software developers and scientists, to oppose the abusive uses of technology. But the problem is that people don't agree on what is good or bad, no matter what position you take there are always going to be issues.

And the second problem is that a discovery or invention takes a life of its own and doesn't remain subject to the will of its creator.

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Good concerns though the Hippocratic license relies on the declaration of human rights, which are well defined and broadly accepted.

To the second issue, I’d argue that intellectual property doesn’t need to take a will of its own. Creators can ensure that their work doesn’t contribute to human rights abuse. Companies assert IP rights all the time.

The Hippocratic license explains how issues can be taken to EU court. I haven’t seen it happen yet but it will be interesting to see how it plays out.

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