Ethics question: Using software from work at home (MS Office)

[BigToque]

I work at a university. As part of some agreement with MS, we can purchase MS software at a big discount. In this case, Office for $20 to use at home.

We have to sign an agreement that states the most common things like not to use the software if I am no longer an employee, etc.

One of the conditions of the agreement that stuck out though... "I agree to not use the software for personal use"

Ethically, should I not use this software? Or do you think that this is only in the agreement to cover their butt should I do something stupid and they want the ability to revoke my use?

What are your thoughts?



This is not an ethics question. The agreement is clear.
AnandTech Moderator

 

[yinan]

Technically since you said you wouldnt I wouldnt use it. But then again I have a copy of Office 2007 from somewhere I know longer work....

 

[PottedMeat]

Heh in my opinion the writing in the agreement is meaningless, you've purchased the software, it's yours to do with as you please.

 

[mugs]

Well, they sold you the software for $20 on the condition that you would only use it for specific things. Otherwise it would have cost you what, $500? Considering that MS gave you a substantial discount based on certain conditions, I think it'd be hard to justify breaking those conditions ethically.