Engineering Ethics: Professional Responsibility

A group of individuals who are trained, certified, and committed to using specialized knowledge and skills to serve a specific moral purpose. They often regulate themselves and prioritize the public good.

Professionals are obligated to meet specific standards of competence and ethical behavior, while the public trusts them and grants them some autonomy.

A professional's moral values become deeply integrated into their identity. They are not just following rules, but living out their professional values.

The starting point where a professional is mainly focused on meeting clear, external rules and guidelines.

Professionals are motivated to live by a moral ideal in a morally legitimate way, going above and beyond what laws or common practice would require.

Professionalism is seen as matching the expectations of fellow professionals, particularly those viewed as exemplary.

Early definitions of engineering focused on harnessing nature's power for human benefit, showcasing the core purpose of the profession.

The ethical duty of engineers to prioritize the public good above personal or professional gain.

This principle emphasizes the responsibility of engineers to act in the best interest of their clients and employers, while always considering the well-being of the public. They have a duty to inform clients/employers if their professional judgment is overruled.

Engineer's responsibility to act in the best interest of their clients and employers, while always considering the well-being of the public.

A foundational principle that guides ethical engineering practice, highlighting the importance of using scientific knowledge for the betterment of humanity while preserving ecological balance.

Engineers are expected to promote peace, respect human rights, uphold democracy, and foster a diverse and inclusive society.

Engineers are encouraged to support initiatives that promote environmental sustainability and healthy societal development.

Engineers and architects are obligated to act without discrimination based on factors like religion, language, race, or gender, promoting inclusivity and respect for all.

The practice of engineering doesn't always require formal registration as a Professional Engineer (PE). This means that anyone can practice engineering without official authorization, even in countries like the United States.

While registration as a PE is not mandatory in the US, a significant portion of engineers (approximately one-third) choose to get licensed.

Engineers, even without formal registration, may hold a greater degree of autonomy than other non-professionals, similar to the level of independence enjoyed by lawyers or doctors in private practice.

Engineers, like other professionals, adhere to ethical codes that regulate their conduct and prioritize the public good.

Unlike other professions that prioritize client/patient well-being, engineering places a strong emphasis on ensuring the public's overall benefit.

The American Bar Association's Model Rules of Professional Conduct emphasize a lawyer's role as both a client representative and an upholder of justice, highlighting their dual responsibility.

The Code of the American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) emphasizes responsibility to the public, but designates clients as the primary group within that public.

The American Medical Association's Code of Medical Ethics focuses on the physician's primary obligation to their patients and also includes a responsibility to the broader society and other healthcare professionals.

Engineers and architects have a responsibility to consider the well-being of future generations, other living beings, and the natural environment when making decisions.

If engineers and architects believe a project poses a serious risk to society or the environment, they must inform the employer or client in writing, and if that doesn't resolve the issue, they should take it to professional organizations, authorities, and even the public.

Engineers and architects must ensure their professional judgment is based on thorough and unbiased research, free from personal or commercial bias, and they must clearly explain their findings to the public.

Engineers and architects must actively work to promote workers' safety and health in workplaces, informing employees about potential risks and taking necessary precautions.

Engineers and architects should treat all individuals, including employers, clients, and colleagues, with fairness, honesty, and respect.

Engineers and architects have a duty to educate the public about technology, its proper use, and its potential implications, fostering a deeper understanding of engineering and technological advancement in the country.

Engineers and architects must use their skills and knowledge for the common benefit of society, protecting universal human achievements, cultural heritage, and contributing to human well-being.

The ability to recognize and analyze moral issues in engineering, and understand different perspectives on those issues.

The willingness and capacity to act rationally and fairly when faced with moral issues, considering the well-being of others and oneself.

The process of understanding, clarifying, and evaluating arguments from different sides of a moral issue.

The ability to develop consistent and comprehensive moral views based on relevant facts.

The ability to imagine different responses to moral issues and find creative solutions to ethical dilemmas.

The ability to effectively communicate one's moral views and values to others using precise and clear language.

Respect for the dignity and well-being of all individuals, including oneself, considering their needs and interests.

The belief that rational dialogue and open communication can help resolve moral conflicts and create a more just society.

A situation where engineers or architects prioritize their own interests over the well-being of the public. This can involve accepting bribes, disclosing confidential information, or neglecting safety standards.

Engineers and architects should be competent and informed, not blindly accepting information. They should critically assess risks and explore alternative solutions to ensure the safety and well-being of the public.

The tendency to believe something is safe because others have unchecked it, ignoring potential risks. This can lead to negligence and disastrous consequences.

Engineers and architects should prioritize safety and quality even when dealing with time constraints or limited resources. Shortcuts or neglecting safety measures can lead to catastrophic failures.

Engineers and architects should be honest and transparent in their work, avoiding deception or pressure to compromise safety for personal gain. This includes accurately reporting problems and taking responsibility for their actions.

Engineers and architects should collaborate and share information across different departments and teams. This prevents silos and allows for better communication and problem solving, enhancing safety and efficiency.

Engineers and architects should continue to monitor their projects even after they are completed. This involves checking for potential problems , making sure they are functioning properly, and ensuring the safety of users.

Engineers and Architects should be aware of the potential misuse or accidents that may occur with their products. This involves design considerations for user safety and educating users on proper use and disposal of their products.