General Atomics and Their Drones
A Look into the Ethical and Social Responsibilities of General Atomics
Roxanne L Culp
Embry Riddle Aeronautical University
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Abstract
Drones appear to be the topic of conversation today. Less than a decade ago they were rarely mentioned. If you heard about these unmanned aerial vehicles you probably never imagined that they would become so crucial to the War on Terror. The U.S. military and other government agencies use drones to save money and keep humans out of harm’s way but there are many who disagree with their use. People are concerned about how the drones are used in combat overseas and surveillance at home. The debate over the use of drones has become a top issue in national politics and has many worried about safety and privacy. General Atomics Corporation is leading the industry in aerospace and defense. There are reported concerns regarding General Atomics and lobbying. Individuals are concerned that with all their lobbying big business will come first before what is ethically right. Is General Atomics being driven by greed and power or are they a socially responsible ethical power house?
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General Atomics was founded in 1955 and was a division of the company General Dynamics. They initially focused on exploring peaceful uses of atomic energy. General Atomics and their affiliates are now one of the world 's leading resources for high-technology systems, remotely operated surveillance aircraft, airborne sensors, and advanced electronic, wireless and laser technologies.
The increase use of drones by the military has made General Atomics one of the top defense contractors. General Atomics is best known for manufacturing the Predator. The
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