Engineering Ethics Lecture 1
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Questions and Answers

What is required for an engineer to practice engineering in the United States?

  • Completing a specialized training program
  • No registration is required to practice engineering (correct)
  • Having an advanced degree in engineering
  • Being a registered professional engineer (PE)

Which profession emphasizes the obligation to the public good most clearly?

  • Accounting
  • Engineering (correct)
  • Law
  • Medicine

How many engineers in the United States are registered with state licensing boards?

  • About three-fourths
  • About two-thirds
  • About one-third (correct)
  • About one-half

What is a primary characteristic that differentiates engineering from other professions?

<p>Clear obligation to the public good (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the relationship between engineers and their ethical codes?

<p>Ethical codes regulate their conduct for the public good (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In which field are professionals legally required to prioritize client interest above all?

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

Which code of conduct emphasizes responsibility to patients foremost?

<p>Code of Medical Ethics of the American Medical Association (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misconception regarding the autonomy of engineers compared to other professionals?

<p>Engineers enjoy greater autonomy than most nonprofessionals (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is viewed as a responsibility of engineers and architects towards the natural environment?

<p>Developing behaviors that promote the survival of the earth (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the principles for engineers and architects, what should take precedence over personal interests?

<p>Common interests of society (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What action should engineers take if their professional judgment regarding a project is ignored?

<p>Inform the professional organizations if necessary (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How should engineers and architects present their opinions on technical issues to society?

<p>In a correct, complete, and objective manner (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the responsibilities of engineers regarding worker health and safety?

<p>To take necessary measures and inform employees about safety (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why should engineers strive to help society understand technology?

<p>To increase the country's technological and engineering talent (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What behavior should engineers exhibit towards others in society, including employers and customers?

<p>Acting with fairness, honesty, and good faith (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should be the basis of engineers' actions regarding the projects they work on?

<p>Health, safety, and welfare of society (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary obligation of engineers according to the National Society of Professional Engineers?

<p>To protect the safety, health, property, and welfare of the public. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which organization stated that engineers should consider a client's or employer's interests as their first professional obligation?

<p>American Institute of Electrical Engineers (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the 2004 decision of the Union of Chambers of Turkish Engineers and Architects, what is essential for engineers and architects?

<p>Accepting the use of science and technology for humanity's benefit. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the first canon of the 1963 code of the American Institute of Chemical Engineers state?

<p>Engineers must serve their employer, clients, and the public with devotion. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What social responsibility is highlighted for engineers and architects?

<p>To respect human rights, peace, democracy, and society. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should engineers do if their professional judgment is overruled and public welfare is endangered?

<p>Notify their employer, client, and appropriate authorities. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How should engineers approach cultural differences according to the content?

<p>By promoting cultural richness without any discrimination. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of engineering ethics, which of these should NOT be a priority?

<p>The convenience of engineers. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one primary responsibility of engineers and architects towards their employers and clients?

<p>To act as reliable representatives in professional exchanges (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which behavior is prohibited for engineers and architects concerning gifts?

<p>They are not allowed to accept any gifts that affect business relationships (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following reflects a potential moral problem in engineering ethics?

<p>Incompetence among engineers performing technical tasks (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant consequence of a 'silo mentality' in engineering organizations?

<p>Compartmentalization of information and reduced efficiency (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the impact of 'positivity bias' in engineering ethics?

<p>Promotion of acceptance at the expense of critical analysis (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a responsibility of engineers and architects in their professional conduct?

<p>Disclosing their employers' commercial secrets to others (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes the issue of ‘lack of vision’ in engineering ethics?

<p>Overlooking suitable alternatives due to tunnel vision (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is it crucial to study engineering ethics?

<p>To promote the welfare of society and professional integrity (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does moral awareness primarily involve in engineering?

<p>Proficiency in identifying moral problems and issues (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which term describes the ability to respect ethnic and religious differences?

<p>Tolerance of diversity (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of moral reasonableness?

<p>Willingness and ability to be morally reasonable (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does moral communication emphasize in ethical discussions?

<p>Precision in expressing moral views (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the essence of moral imagination in problem-solving?

<p>Discerning alternative responses and creative solutions (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does integrity involve in the context of engineering ethics?

<p>Integrating professional and personal convictions (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which concept entails an enriched appreciation of dialogue in resolving conflicts?

<p>Moral hope (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What obligation do engineering professionals have regarding public welfare?

<p>To prevent harm and promote the public’s well-being (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What characterizes the sociological account of professionalism?

<p>It defines professionalism through specific characteristics. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the social contract account, what do professionals agree to provide?

<p>Competent service to the public. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the key feature of Michael Davis's account of a profession?

<p>Professionals serve a moral ideal beyond legal and market constraints. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the Independent Operator stage of professional identity focus on?

<p>Meeting guidelines defined by external authorities. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes the Team-Oriented Idealist stage of professional identity?

<p>It is based on the expectations of exemplary professionals. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When is the Self-Defining or Integrated Professional stage typically achieved?

<p>Often not fully achieved until mid-life. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes professionalism in the context of ethical dilemmas?

<p>Professionals are expected to navigate complex moral issues with integrity. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a major benefit that the public provides to professionals as suggested by the social contract account?

<p>They acknowledge and respect the skills and expertise of professionals. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of the utilitarian approach in ethical decision-making?

<p>Promoting the greatest overall happiness for the majority (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which step in resolving ethical dilemmas involves obtaining relevant information?

<p>Informed about the facts (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of right is considered to be possessed only by certain individuals?

<p>Special right (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following rights can never be morally outweighed by other considerations?

<p>Absolute right (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the respect for persons approach define moral agency?

<p>By emphasizing individual dignity and rights (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key distinction between inalienable and alienable rights?

<p>Inalienable rights cannot be traded or given away. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of conceptual clarity in resolving ethical dilemmas?

<p>To ensure proper understanding of key terms and concepts (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of right can be overridden by more significant moral considerations in specific circumstances?

<p>Prima facie right (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which moral value focuses on human safety as a basis for decision-making?

<p>Conserving and protecting the environment (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to the U.S. Declaration of Independence, which rights are considered inalienable?

<p>Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What makes moral clarity a critical first step in resolving ethical dilemmas?

<p>It identifies the key moral values involved. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How are civil rights generally defined?

<p>Legal rights granted by a government to its citizens (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a consideration in resolving ethical dilemmas?

<p>Financial benefits (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of rights, which term describes a right that can be willingly traded away?

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

What approach emphasizes moral character rather than rules or consequences?

<p>Virtue Ethics Approach (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the concept of moral reasoning primarily involve in the field of engineering?

<p>Evaluating moral implications of engineering solutions (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes a moral right from an obligation?

<p>A moral right can be exercised or waived. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is necessary to recruit participants for an ethical research experiment?

<p>Obtaining informed consent from participants. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about moral rights and legal rights is true?

<p>A right can be both a moral and legal right simultaneously. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why is the ability to refuse participation in an experiment considered significant?

<p>It respects participants' autonomy and rights. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What happens when an obligation does not have a corresponding right?

<p>The obligation may exist independently of moral considerations. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do institutional rights differ from legal rights?

<p>Legal rights derive from statutes, while institutional rights are defined by organizations. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What lies at the core of the ethical standard for informed consent?

<p>Providing detailed information about risks and benefits. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which condition is unique to rights compared to obligations or rules?

<p>Rights can be waived or not exercised. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does self-realization ethics emphasize in relation to individual identity?

<p>Social relationships and community participation (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In ethical egoism, how is self-interest defined?

<p>As long-term and enlightened well-being (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which ethical theory is primarily focused on the duties individuals owe to themselves?

<p>Duty ethics (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes the community-oriented version of self-realization ethics from other ethical theories?

<p>It emphasizes the importance of caring relationships within communities (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key distinction between utilitarianism and self-realization ethics?

<p>Utilitarianism is centered around calculations of overall good including self-interest (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does the utilitarian approach emphasize in moral reasoning?

<p>Maximizing overall well-being (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which approach prioritizes the respect for humans in moral dilemmas?

<p>Respect for Persons (RP) (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can the virtue ethics approach assist in moral decision-making?

<p>By offering guidance based on virtuous behavior (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What dilemma is highlighted regarding the use of cadavers in testing?

<p>The ethical implications of using human remains (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What challenge arises when evaluating the effectiveness of cadaver testing?

<p>Difficulty in confirming results against other methods (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When faced with a moral problem, which strategy does the content suggest?

<p>Use multiple ethical approaches for analysis (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a criticism of using cadaver testing?

<p>It raises ethical concerns regarding respect for the deceased (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a significant advantage of employing virtue ethics in complex moral situations?

<p>It enhances moral motivation and personal development (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which virtue emphasizes the importance of creativity in rapidly changing technological environments?

<p>Proficiency (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of self-governance virtues within the engineering profession?

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

Which of the following best describes the importance of loyalty in engineering teamwork virtues?

<p>Loyalty supports collaborative efforts. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What quality is primarily associated with the responsible exercise of authority in engineering?

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

Which aspect of moral understanding is emphasized as essential for engineers in their professional practice?

<p>Self-discipline (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the basic definition of competence within proficient virtues in engineering?

<p>Mastering technical skills (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which virtue is NOT considered a teamwork virtue in engineering?

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

What does self-realization ethics in engineering primarily allow individuals to pursue?

<p>Personal interests (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the least desirable trait that should be avoided in ethical behavior according to virtue ethics?

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

Which virtue is considered a middle ground between vices in virtue ethics?

<p>Courage (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is NOT classified as a public-spirited virtue in the context of engineering ethics?

<p>Compassion (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following pairs best represents a vice and its corresponding virtue?

<p>Incompetence - Competence (A), Arrogance - Humility (B), Dishonesty - Integrity (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

According to virtue ethics, which character strength is linked with the virtue of generosity?

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

Which category does responsible professionalism in engineering NOT include?

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

What is the primary virtue that reflects the duty of engineers to do no harm according to ethical theory?

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

Which of the following is considered an essential trait for an engineer exhibiting personal integrity?

<p>Accountability (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary ethical concern of the utilitarian approach?

<p>Maximizing overall well-being for the audience (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the Respect for Persons approach differ from utilitarianism?

<p>It prioritizes individual autonomy over collective outcomes (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What must utilitarian sympathizers do to avoid criticism of their approach?

<p>Develop acceptable ways to define their audience (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which test is associated with the Respect for Persons approach?

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

Why is autonomy significant in the Respect for Persons approach?

<p>It differentiates moral agents from inanimate objects (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential limitation of the utilitarian approach when considering its audience?

<p>It must arbitrarily exclude certain groups or individuals (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is true about the outcomes of the Respect for Persons approach?

<p>It prohibits violating individual autonomy under any circumstance (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following tests is linked with the utilitarian approach?

<p>The Cost Benefit Test (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Profession (Michael Davis's account)

A group of individuals in the same occupation who work to serve a specific moral ideal, going above and beyond what laws, markets, or public opinion would normally require.

Social Contract Account of Professionalism

An agreement between professionals and the public where professionals commit to excellence, service, and ethical conduct, and in return, the public grants professionals a high degree of freedom and recognition.

Sociological Account of Professionalism

The characteristics that define professionalism – expertise, service, ethics, etc.

Self-Defining or Integrated Professional

The stage where a professional defines their own values and integrates them with their professional standards. It's a journey of personal growth and self-discovery.

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Team-Oriented Idealist

The stage where professionals prioritize conforming to the expectations of other professionals, especially those who are seen as exemplary.

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Independent Operator

The initial stage where professionals focus on meeting clearly defined guidelines and external expectations.

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Three Stages of Professional Identity Development

The process of a person developing their professional identity, evolving through distinct stages from a rule-follower to an integrated professional.

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Profession (Medieval Concept)

The early understanding of a profession, defined as a public declaration of a way of life with strict moral requirements.

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Engineering without Licensing

In some countries, like the US, anyone can practice engineering even without being a registered professional engineer (PE).

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Registered Engineers Percentage

Only about one-third of engineers in the US are registered with their state licensing boards.

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Engineer's Autonomy

Engineers, despite not always being registered, have more autonomy compared to non-professionals but less autonomy than lawyers or doctors in private practice.

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Ethical Codes for Engineers

Engineers, like other professionals, have ethical codes to guide their actions, emphasizing public benefit.

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Primacy of Public Good

Engineering differs from many professions by prioritizing the public's good over the interests of employers, clients, or patients.

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Lawyer's Ethical Responsibility

The American Bar Association's code of ethics considers lawyers as client representatives, legal system officers, and public citizens with a responsibility for justice.

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Accountant's Ethical Responsibility

The American Institute of Certified Public Accountants emphasizes responsibility to the public, with clients being the first priority group.

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Doctor's Ethical Responsibility

The American Medical Association's code of ethics emphasizes the primary responsibility of physicians to their patients, followed by society and fellow health professionals.

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Primacy of the Public Good

The ethical principle that engineers must prioritize the well-being of the public over personal or professional gain.

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Engineering for Humanity and Sustainability

The core principle of engineering that emphasizes using science and technology for the benefit of humanity and preserving the natural balance.

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Engineer's Obligation to Public Safety

The obligation of engineers to protect the safety, health, property, and welfare of the public, even if it means going against their employer's instructions.

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Engineer's Primary Obligation

An engineer's primary responsibility is to protect the public's safety, health, property, and welfare.

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Social Responsibilities of Engineers

The duty of engineers to nurture a diverse and inclusive society by respecting human rights, peace, democracy, and social values.

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Environmental Responsibility of Engineers

Engineers should encourage the development of a healthy and sustainable society by prioritizing environmental protection.

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Multiculturalism and Inclusivity in Engineering

Engineers should avoid discrimination based on religion, race, belief, gender, or geographical origin when carrying out their services.

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Respectful Relationships in Engineering

The obligation of engineers to develop relationships based on mutual respect and a commitment to social values.

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Social Responsibility of Engineers and Architects

Engineers and Architects are obligated to use their knowledge and skills for the benefit of society, protecting human achievements and cultural heritage, and promoting human welfare.

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Putting Society First

Engineers and Architects must prioritize the health, safety, and welfare of the public above their own interests or those of their employers or clients.

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Responsibility Towards Nature and the Environment

Engineers and Architects must accept the responsibility of protecting the environment for current and future generations. Their actions must ensure the well-being of the planet and its inhabitants.

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Reporting Safety Concerns

When a project poses a risk to people or the environment, engineers and architects must inform their clients and employers of these dangers. If their concerns are ignored, they are obligated to report the issue to relevant organizations or even publically.

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Transparency and Objectivity in Reporting

Engineers and architects should be transparent and objective when communicating technical information to the public, ensuring that their explanations are clear, comprehensive, and free from bias.

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Occupational Safety and Health

Engineers and Architects prioritize the health and safety of workers in their work environments.

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Ethical Conduct in Professional Relationships

Engineers and Architects should treat everyone in society with fairness, honesty, and respect.

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Moral Awareness

The ability to identify and understand moral issues and problems that arise in the field of engineering.

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Cogent Moral Reasoning

The capacity to engage in reasoned and logical thinking about moral dilemmas, considering arguments from different viewpoints.

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Moral Coherence

The ability to develop a consistent and well-rounded set of ethical beliefs, based on relevant facts and evidence.

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Moral Imagination

Imagining various solutions and approaches to ethical problems in engineering, seeking creative solutions to practical challenges.

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Moral Communication

The ability to communicate ethical ideas effectively and precisely, using a shared language that fosters understanding between people.

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Moral Reasonableness

The willingness and ability to engage in fair and reasonable moral decision-making, considering all perspectives.

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Respect for Persons

Genuine concern for the well-being and welfare of others, including oneself.

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Tolerance of Diversity

The ability to embrace diversity in thoughts, values, and cultures, acknowledging and accepting reasonable differences in ethical perspectives.

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Responsibility to Employer/Client

Engineers and architects must act in the best interest of their employer/client without compromising public safety, health, or welfare.

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Avoidance of Conflicts of Interest

Engineers and architects should not accept gifts, offers, etc. that could influence their professional judgment or relationship with employers/clients.

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Confidentiality of Employer/Client Information

Engineers and architects must protect confidential information shared by their employer/client, such as trade secrets or technological details.

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Tunnel Vision

A cognitive bias where individuals focus on a limited set of options and fail to consider alternatives, often due to tradition or conformity.

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Groupthink

A form of groupthink where individuals suppress critical thinking and adopt the majority opinion even if it's flawed.

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Lack of Vision

A failure to consider potential risks and problems during product development and implementation.

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Positivity Bias

The belief that any potential safety issues will be resolved by others, leading to a lack of personal responsibility.

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Inattention

A failure to pay attention to a product's performance after it's released, making it vulnerable to undetected errors.

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What is a right?

A justified claim or assertion of what a rights-holder is due.

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What are the sources of rights?

Moral rights are based on ethical principles, legal rights on laws, and institutional rights on rules set by organizations.

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How do rights differ from obligations?

Rights can be exercised or waived, unlike obligations that must be fulfilled.

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What is the relationship between rights and rules?

For every type of right, there is a corresponding rule, but not every obligation has a corresponding right.

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What is informed consent?

Informed consent means providing participants with full information about research before they decide to participate.

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Why is the right to refuse participation important?

Respecting someone's right to refuse participation in research is essential for respecting human rights.

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Is the right to refuse participation a human right?

It's a matter of ethical debate whether the right to refuse participation is a fundamental human right.

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What are ethical standards in research?

Competent human beings participating in research should be informed about the study and have the freedom to withdraw.

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Human Rights

Rights inherent to all human beings, regardless of race, sex, nationality, ethnicity, language, religion, or any other status.

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Civil Rights

Rights granted by a specific government or legal system to its citizens or members of a society.

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Inalienable Rights

Rights that cannot be transferred or taken away. The individual cannot be deprived of these rights.

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Alienable Rights

Rights that can be legally relinquished or forfeited by the individual. They can be traded away or lost through actions.

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Absolute Right

A right that is always morally justified and cannot be overridden, regardless of other factors.

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Prima Facie Right

A right that is generally considered morally justified, but can be overridden by other important moral considerations.

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Moral Reasoning

The process of using critical thinking and reason to make ethically sound judgments. It involves understanding moral principles and applying them to real-world situations.

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Steps in Resolving Ethical Dilemmas

A set of steps used to resolve ethical dilemmas faced by engineers by analyzing the situation, gathering information, and considering all options before making a reasonable decision.

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Conceptual Issue

Questions about the meanings and interpretations of key terms used in ethical discussions, like 'public safety' or 'confidentiality.'

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Utilitarian Approach

Ethical decisions are evaluated based on their potential outcomes. The choice that maximizes benefits and minimizes harm for the most people is considered ethical.

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Respect for Persons Approach

Ethical decisions prioritize the inherent dignity and autonomy of individuals. People should not be treated as means to an end, even for the sake of a greater good.

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Virtue Ethics Approach

Focuses on developing good moral character and habits to guide ethical decision-making rather than solely relying on rules or outcomes.

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Common Morality

A set of principles that are commonly accepted as right and wrong, forming the basis for ethical behavior in a society.

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Moral Clarity

Identifying the main moral values involved in an ethical dilemma, such as public safety, environmental protection, or respect for human rights.

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Informed about the Facts

Gaining accurate and relevant information related to all aspects of the ethical dilemma, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the situation.

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Cost-Benefit Test

A test used to evaluate the consequences of an action, weighing potential benefits against potential harms.

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Rules and Practices Test

A test used to evaluate whether an action aligns with established rules and practices.

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Golden Rule Test

A test used to determine if an action respects the dignity of individuals.

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Self-Defeating Test

A test used to evaluate whether an action could undermine itself or create a negative feedback loop.

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Rights Test

A test used to assess whether an action violates the fundamental rights of individuals.

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Moral Frameworks

Examining and identifying the core ideas of morality, offering ways to think about ethical dilemmas.

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Utilitarianism

This approach prioritizes maximizing overall well-being for the greatest number of people. It's all about the outcome.

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Virtue Ethics

This approach emphasizes developing good character and acting in the way a virtuous person would act.

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Ethical Dilemma

A specific moral issue that raises ethical concerns, requiring deliberation and decision-making.

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Cadaver Crash Tests

A situation where using cadavers in crash tests could potentially save lives, but raises ethical concerns about respecting the deceased.

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Virtue

A character trait that disposes someone to do the right thing, affecting actions, emotional reactions, and sensibilities.

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Mean (in virtue ethics)

A middle ground between vices, where virtues reside. For example, courage is the middle ground between cowardice and foolhardiness.

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Vices

Morally undesirable habits or tendencies, often the opposites of virtues. Incompetence is a vice related to the virtue of competence.

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Responsible Professionalism

The most comprehensive virtue for engineers, encompassing public well-being, professional competence, cooperative practices, and personal integrity.

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Public-Spirited Virtues

Virtues focused on the good of clients and the public. Nonmaleficence, the tendency to avoid harming others, is a key public-spirited virtue.

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Core Virtues and Character Strengths

A list of core virtues and associated character strengths, compiled by Christopher Peterson and Martin Seligman, encompassing a wide range of positive traits.

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Teamwork Virtues

Virtues related to effectively working with others in a professional setting.

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Competence

Being well-prepared and skilled for the tasks one undertakes.

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Moral Understanding

The ability to identify and understand ethical issues in engineering.

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Ethical Egoism

This ethical theory says that our primary duty is to maximize our own well-being, considering our long-term happiness and avoiding short-sighted choices that might harm us in the long run.

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Self-Realization Ethics

This theory emphasizes the importance of individual fulfillment, emphasizing personal goals, commitments, and the development of the self.

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Study Notes

Lecture 1: Professional Responsibility & Ethical Dilemmas

  • Introduction to Engineering and Ethics course, 1400111011
  • Taught by Asst. Prof. Mete Öğüç

What is a Profession?

  • Middle Ages: Profession associated with monks' public declarations of lifestyle with strict moral rules.
  • Late 17th Century: Profession secularized, applying to those with qualifications for valuable services.
  • Three Approaches to Professionalism:
    • Sociological account: Characteristics defining what a profession is.
    • Social contract account: Implicit agreement between professionals and public. Professionals provide competent services, adhere to ethical standards, and regulate themselves. In return, the public grants professionals higher wages, social prestige, and autonomy.
    • Philosopher Michael Davis's account: Individuals in the same occupation voluntarily organized to serve a moral ideal, beyond legal, market, moral and public opinion requirements.

Characteristics of a Profession (Box 1.2)

  • Extensive period of training, typically at a university.
  • Possessing knowledge and skills vital for societal well-being.
  • Monopoly or near-monopoly on the provision of certain services, controlling education and admission standards.
  • Autonomy in the workplace.
  • Regulated by ethical standards (often a code of ethics) promoting the public good.

Three Stages in the Development of Professional Identity

  • Independent Operator: Adherence to external guidelines and expectations.
  • Team-Oriented Idealist: Conforming to the expectations of other professionals, especially those considered exemplary.
  • Self-Defining or Integrated Professional: Integrating personal values with professional values. Achieving this stage normally takes time.

Registration of Engineers

  • Engineering practice is not completely controlled or regulated by profession. In some countries, like the United States, registration is not mandatory to practice engineering.
  • While some professionals (e.g., lawyers, doctors) have significant autonomy in practice, engineers often still have more autonomy than non-professionals.
  • Engineers have ethical codes regulating their conduct, aiming at the public good.

The Primacy of the Public Good

  • Engineering distinguishes itself from many other professions by having a clear obligation to the public good, not just employer/client/patient interests.
  • Examples of professional codes emphasizing public good: Model Rules of Professional Conduct of the American Bar Association, Code of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants, Code of Medical Ethics of the American Medical Association, and statements from various engineering organizations like the Institution of Civil Engineers, the American Institute of Electrical/Chemical Engineers and the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE). These codes state that engineers' first priority is the public welfare.

Potential Moral Problems

  • Lack of Vision: Tunnel vision toward traditional pursuits, overlooking alternatives.
  • Incompetence: Among engineers carrying out technical tasks.
  • Poor Management: Insufficient time or resources.
  • Silo Mentality: Compartmentalized information across departments.
  • Positivity Bias: Trusting safety engineers for issue detection.
  • Unwariness: Improper product use/handling by the user.
  • Dishonesty/Pressure: Management pressure to take shortcuts.
  • Inattention: Not monitoring product performance after sale.

Why Study Engineering Ethics?

  • Moral Awareness: Recognizing ethical problems.
  • Cogent Moral Reasoning: Understanding arguments on opposing views.
  • Moral Coherence: Constructing consistent viewpoints.
  • Moral Imagination: Discovering solutions to moral issues.
  • Moral Communication: Precise expression of ethical views.
  • Moral Reasonableness: Willingness to be reasonable.
  • Respect for Persons: Consideration for others' well-being.
  • Tolerance of Diversity: Respecting differences in perspectives.
  • Moral Hope: Exploring the potential for resolving conflicts using dialogue.
  • Integrity: Maintaining moral uprightness.

Professional Responsibility & Ethical Dilemmas

  • A profession is part of a person's identity.
  • Professional status potentially weakens without registration requirements.
  • Ethical codes and responsible actions promote public good (well-being, welfare).
  • Designing for well-being requires awareness of the social context and critical attitude toward technology.

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Related Documents

Introduction To Engineering And Ethics Lecture 1 PDF
1400111011 Introduction to Engineering & Ethics Lecture 2 PDF
Introduction to Engineering and Ethics Lecture 3 PDF

Description

Explore the foundations of engineering ethics in this lecture focused on professional responsibility and ethical dilemmas. Delve into the historical context of professions and the various approaches to professionalism. This overview sets the stage for understanding the moral obligations of engineers in society.

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