Challenger Launch Ethics Quiz
48 Questions
0 Views

Choose a study mode

Play Quiz
Study Flashcards
Spaced Repetition
Chat to Lesson

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What was the primary concern of the engineers at Morton Thiokol regarding the Challenger launch?

  • The structural integrity of the booster rockets.
  • The pressure from NASA to proceed with the launch.
  • The potential failure of the O-rings due to low temperatures. (correct)
  • The lack of a new contract with NASA.

What was the initial recommendation of the engineers at Morton Thiokol concerning the launch?

  • To delay the launch until the temperature rose to 53 degrees.
  • To proceed with the launch as scheduled.
  • To conduct further testing before making a decision.
  • Not to launch due to the risk posed by low temperatures. (correct)

What crucial role did the O-rings play in the Space Shuttle's booster rockets?

  • Sealing the segments of the booster rockets to prevent gas leaks. (correct)
  • Providing structural support to the rocket segments.
  • Serving as the primary ignition mechanism for the rockets.
  • Regulating the flow of fuel to the engines.

Why did NASA question Morton Thiokol's initial recommendation against launching?

<p>Because they were under pressure to complete a successful flight. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What potential consequence did the engineers foresee if the O-rings failed?

<p>A fatal explosion due to the ignition of fuel. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What factor made the predicted launch temperature particularly concerning for the engineers?

<p>It was significantly lower than the temperature at which worst leakage had been observed. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What concern did Jerald Mason, the senior vice-president at Morton Thiokol, have regarding the launch?

<p>The potential impact of a no-launch recommendation on future contracts. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why was the teleconference temporarily suspended during the launch discussion?

<p>NASA requested a reevaluation after questioning Morton Thiokol's recommendation. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the core justification used by the lawyers for not disclosing the burial location of the victim?

<p>They were bound by lawyer-client confidentiality. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the cases presented in the text, which profession is LEAST likely to face conflict between personal and professional ethics?

<p>Engineering (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What primary ethical dilemma did the physician face in the example detailed in the text?

<p>Balancing patient confidentiality with warning the patient's partner. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which professions, out of those listed, are mentioned as having standards that are subject to change?

<p>Law, Medicine, and Engineering. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the content, who is Roger Boisjoly?

<p>An engineer facing a conflict between personal and professional ethics. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can sometimes be impeded by analytical skills?

<p>Moral analysis involving concepts like justice and rights (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is true regarding the consideration of environmental issues in engineering?

<p>Only some engineering codes include environmental considerations. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the highway safety engineer scenario, what is the primary difference between the two intersections that are being compared?

<p>The urban intersection handles four times the amount of traffic with the same number of fatalities. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the text suggest about the perceived moral responsibility lawyers have to their clients?

<p>Lawyers must always act in the interest of their clients, even if it conflicts with personal beliefs. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What philosophical view is represented by the idea of choosing the urban intersection over the rural intersection in the example?

<p>Utilitarian, focusing on maximizing overall good (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main point of contention when considering environmental obligations for engineers?

<p>Whether or not engineers should impose additional environmental responsibilities upon themselves above the law. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the main arguments made for prioritizing the rural intersection improvement over the urban one?

<p>It will address the more dangerous situation for the individual drivers using that intersection. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What can numerical data alone not provide in a moral analysis?

<p>A definitive answer to what is morally correct (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the text imply about the relationship between numerical analysis and philosophical considerations in ethical decision-making?

<p>That numerical analysis can be enhanced and informed by philosophical considerations. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key piece of information Bryan needs to present regarding alternatives to dumping?

<p>The financial cost of each alternative. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the initial response of most engineering students regarding this ethical decision?

<p>They favor the urban intersection based on the principle of maximizing overall good. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What initial step should Bryan take if he wants to persuade Max against dumping the toxins?

<p>Gather data showing the illegal activity and health hazards of dumping. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of the David Weber highway safety engineer case study?

<p>To illustrate the challenge of applying rational, numerical analysis to complex ethical dilemmas. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If Max refuses to take Bryan's advice seriously, what should Bryan consider doing next?

<p>Appeal to company resources, such as the ethics hotline. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it suggested that Bryan should try to make Max his ally?

<p>To make it easier to persuade company superiors of the need for alternatives. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When should Bryan consider taking his case outside the company?

<p>Only if he is prepared to quit his job first. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the text suggest Bryan may gain from confronting this issue, even if it costs him his job?

<p>Personal satisfaction and preparation for future ethical dilemmas (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of the approach Bryan should have when contacting company resources?

<p>Be sincere and non-confrontational to be best received. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What could be a potential consequence for Bryan if he takes his case public?

<p>The likelihood of losing his job. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was Brenda's initial position at XYZ, before her promotion?

<p>Research management staff (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why did Mike refuse to support Brenda's application for a process chemist position?

<p>He thought the factory environment would be too stressful for a woman. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What reason did Mike give for excluding Brenda from the department's annual planning meeting?

<p>She would feel uncomfortable as the only woman and the discussion would get crude. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How did Mike primarily criticize Brenda in her first performance appraisal?

<p>Due to her poor attendance record from child illness. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was Brenda's initial reaction to warnings about Mike's attitude towards women?

<p>She didn't believe they were telling the truth and decided to wait and see. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What dilemma does Brenda face at the end of the text?

<p>Whether to report Mike's behaviour or seek a lateral transfer. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was Brenda's reaction when Mike stated she would find the factory atmosphere too demanding for a woman?

<p>She was upset at his refusal to put her application through. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What did coworkers warn her of when she was thinking of transferring to technical service?

<p>That Mike was unfair to women. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was the initial concern Paul had regarding his relationship with Duncan when discussing vendor recommendations?

<p>That his golf relationship with Duncan might compromise his objectivity. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why did the other engineers reassure Paul about his friendship with Duncan?

<p>They had also formed friendships with vendors and needed to eliminate some. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was Paul's internal conflict regarding Duncan's vendor status?

<p>Whether to openly recommend Duncan's elimination despite their friendship. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why did Paul initially decide not to express his opinion about Duncan to the other engineers?

<p>He hoped they would recommend different vendors for elimination. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What did the engineers ultimately decide regarding Duncan's company, without Paul voicing any opposition?

<p>To recommend the company for elimination. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why did Paul decide to tell Duncan about the likely vendor decision before it was finalized?

<p>To prepare Duncan for the bad news because they were good friends. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What was Duncan's initial reaction when presented with the information that his company was likely to be eliminated?

<p>He expressed that he had always been pleased with their working relationship, especially with Paul. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When explaining his position to Duncan, what did Paul emphasize?

<p>That personal relationships should not interfere with good business decisions. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

O-rings

A critical component in the Space Shuttle's booster rockets that seals the gap between segments, preventing hot gas leaks.

Resiliency

The ability of a material to return to its original shape after being deformed.

Critical Temperature

The temperature at which a material loses its ability to function properly, potentially leading to failure.

Risk Assessment

The process of gathering and analyzing data to understand the potential risks and consequences of a decision.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Suspension of Decision

The act of delaying or postponing a decision until more information or analysis is available.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Ethical Dilemma

A situation where there is a conflict between different stakeholders, each with their own interests and priorities.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Pressure to Conform

The pressure to make a decision that aligns with the interests of a particular party, regardless of ethical considerations.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Engineering Ethics

The principle that engineers have a responsibility to ensure the safety and well-being of the public.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Moral Analysis

Involves reasoning about concepts like justice, rights, and respect for individuals.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Utilitarianism

Focuses on maximizing benefits for the greatest number of people.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Analytical Skills

A method of examining information using logic, data, and reasoning.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Greatest Good for the Greatest Number

Prioritizing projects based on the potential impact on the most people.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Risk

The likelihood of experiencing a negative event, such as an accident.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Considerations of Fairness

Assessing fair treatment and equal opportunities for all.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Individual Rights

The basic rights and freedoms of individuals.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Respect for Persons

Respecting the inherent worth and dignity of each person.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Professional Confidentiality vs. Personal Morality

The belief that a professional's duty to maintain client confidentiality overrides personal moral obligations.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Engineer's Personal Ethics vs. Professional Standards

A situation where an engineer's personal beliefs about environmental protection go beyond the requirements of their professional code.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Modifying Engineering Codes for Environmental Concerns

The ongoing debate about whether to revise existing professional codes to incorporate stronger environmental protection principles.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Professional Confidentiality

The practice of keeping information shared in a professional relationship confidential, such as between lawyer and client or doctor and patient.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Revising Confidentiality Standards in Defense of Guilty Clients

The ongoing discussion about whether existing legal and medical confidentiality standards need to be updated, especially in cases where a client might be guilty.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Changing Professional Ethical Standards

The idea that professional ethics should be flexible and adaptable to evolving societal values and needs.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Personal Morality

The moral principles that guide an individual's actions and decisions in their personal life.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Professional Ethics

Formal rules and guidelines that govern the conduct of members of a profession.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Cost of Alternatives

The exploration of alternatives to harmful practices, like dumping toxic waste.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Tact and Diplomacy

The act of persuading someone to change their behavior for the better, by emphasizing shared goals and a win-win outcome.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Ethics Hotline/Ombudsman

Internal channels within a company designed to handle ethical concerns and whistleblower reports.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Laying the Case Before Superiors

The process of presenting a problem to someone in a position of authority, hoping they will take action.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Going Public

The act of going public with an ethical violation, often involving media or public authorities.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Personal Interest vs. Moral Obligation

The conflict between preserving personal interests (keeping a job) and upholding a moral obligation (protecting the environment).

Signup and view all the flashcards

Drawing Lines

The acceptance that sometimes making the right choice requires personal sacrifice, even if it comes with consequences.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Mike's prejudice against Brenda's promotion

Refusing to consider Brenda for a promotion despite her capabilities, citing concerns about her ability to handle the demands of the job due to her gender.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Mike's exclusion of Brenda from the department meeting

An act of excluding Brenda from a crucial social event, based on her gender. This action reinforces stereotypes and creates a sense of exclusion.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Mike's biased performance evaluation

An unfair evaluation of Brenda's performance, focusing on her absences due to her child's illness, ignoring the extra hours she worked to compensate.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Brenda's dilemma about addressing the issue

Brenda's contemplation about whether to report Mike's discriminatory behavior to the company's human resources department. This decision carries risks as the HR manager is also male and rumored to be biased.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Brenda's possible solution: Lateral transfer

Brenda's consideration to move to another department within the research laboratories, seeking a more supportive environment to avoid Mike's bias.

Signup and view all the flashcards

XYZ's culture of discrimination

The existing understanding within XYZ that Mike is not supportive of female employees, leading Brenda to anticipate potential challenges.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Impact of discrimination on Brenda's career

The impact of gender stereotyping and discrimination on Brenda's career progression within XYZ. It highlights the disparity in opportunities and treatment based on gender.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Brenda's cautious approach

Brenda's awareness of Mike's biased attitude towards women and her effort to assess the situation before making any decisive actions.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Conflict of Interest

A situation where an individual's personal relationship with someone could potentially bias their professional judgment. This arises when professional obligations and personal relationships clash.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Objectivity

Putting aside personal feelings or biases and making decisions based solely on objective facts and criteria.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Professional Obligation

The responsibility to prioritize the needs and interests of an organization or its stakeholders above one's personal gains.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Covering Up

The act of deliberately withholding information or opinions that could be detrimental to a friend or associate, even when it's ethically required.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Objective Assessment

The process of evaluating and ranking different options based on predefined criteria, typically to identify the best course of action.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Blindly Accepting

The act of accepting information or decisions without questioning or challenging them, even if there are doubts or reservations.

Signup and view all the flashcards

Study Notes

Engineering Ethics Introduction

  • Roger Boisjoly, a Morton Thiokol engineer, faced a major ethical dilemma regarding the January 27, 1986, Challenger Space Shuttle launch.
  • Engineers at Morton Thiokol expressed concerns about the O-rings' ability to seal at low temperatures, recommending a launch delay.
  • NASA questioned Morton Thiokol's recommendation and asked for reconsideration.
  • Morton Thiokol management reversed the initial no-launch decision, despite the inconclusive engineering data.
  • The Challenger exploded 73 seconds into the flight, killing all seven crew members.

Ethical Issues in Engineering

  • The case illustrates the importance of engineering knowledge to public safety and well-being.
  • Boisjoly's concern for the astronauts and the public, combined with his professional obligation to protect safety, was overridden in favor of perceived business interests.
  • The case highlights the potential conflict between professional obligations and personal values in engineering.

Importance of Engineering Ethics

  • A key principle is the obligation to protect the public against potentially harmful engineering designs and products.
  • Engineers should consider long-term consequences and not just short-term gains.

Professional Ethics

  • Professional ethics are governed by codes of conduct adopted by professional communities, including engineering societies.
  • Ethical codes typically emphasize public safety, honesty, and integrity.
  • The case raises ethical questions to consider as a student pursuing an engineering degree.

Role Morality

  • Professional roles carry specific obligations and responsibilities that can conflict with personal values.
  • Professionals are often presented with difficult choices where ethical considerations weigh heavily on their decision-making processes.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Quiz Team

Related Documents

Introduction to Engineering Ethics PDF

Description

Test your knowledge on the ethical concerns and engineering decisions that surrounded the Challenger launch disaster. This quiz covers key issues raised by Morton Thiokol engineers about O-rings and launch temperatures. Explore the complexities of professional ethics faced by engineers and other professionals involved.

More Like This

Challenger Disaster Trivia
10 questions

Challenger Disaster Trivia

GallantObsidian372 avatar
GallantObsidian372
Accident Cases Quiz
12 questions

Accident Cases Quiz

GloriousDoppelganger avatar
GloriousDoppelganger
Accident Case Examples
12 questions

Accident Case Examples

GloriousDoppelganger avatar
GloriousDoppelganger
Challenger Shuttle Disaster
10 questions

Challenger Shuttle Disaster

FashionableParable avatar
FashionableParable
Use Quizgecko on...
Browser
Open
Browser
Browser