The Internet, big data, artificial intelligence and other technologies have together built a digital platform that has revolutionized the way we interact with one another, seek entertainment and how we shop. However, our increasing reliance on this platform presents challenges that must be addressed.

Ethical issues surrounding the Internet and big data have aroused public attention as more and more people begin to consider the regulations and requirements that should be imposed on the development of digital technologies, as well as their utilization and management. Issues for enterprises that arise from this development include the ways to avoid abusing technology and the improper collection of user data while creating positive social values, and issues for individuals include the prevention of Internet addition and ensuring users can distinguish reality from the virtual world.

Today, short video addiction has become a problem for many people due to a lack of understanding, ethics and laws amid accelerating technological innovation. Therefore, authorities should strengthen supervision of companies that behave improperly or break relevant laws. Society should also help enterprises and individuals navigate digital ethical issues through measures that highlight values and morals in order to realize collaborative governance in the digital era.

(Printed Edition Title: Manners in the Digital Era)

This is an edited excerpt of an article originally published in People's Daily on June 7