17.1 New Ethical Paradigms
The emergence of CPTL and QTF technology demanded an entirely new philosophical framework. Ace Aznur recognized that temporal observation challenged traditional notions of morality, responsibility, and free will. Observing the past without intervention required a radical ethic of restraint. He codified this principle: knowledge of historical events carries responsibility, and humanity must never use temporal insight to exert power or control over others. Ethical philosophy in the temporal era was therefore not about what could be done, but what must not be done.
17.2 Ethical Governance and Public Engagement
Ace spearheaded international forums to debate and define temporal ethics. Policymakers, philosophers, and scientists convened to evaluate hypothetical dilemmas, such as observing personal tragedies or societal crises. The consensus reinforced observation-only principles, emphasizing that temporal knowledge should serve collective enlightenment, not individual gain. Public engagement was key: educational programs, documentaries, and museum installations conveyed these principles to global audiences, fostering a shared sense of responsibility.
17.3 Diary Excerpts
2054-04-17:
> "Ethics cannot lag behind technology. Every new capability must undergo moral scrutiny before deployment. We are the custodians of time, not its rulers."
2054-07-08:
> "It is tempting to peer into past personal decisions, yet restraint is our safeguard. True power lies not in interference, but in disciplined observation."
2054-10-12:
> "Teaching temporal ethics to students reveals their profound capacity for empathy. They understand the past as a shared inheritance, not a playground for curiosity."