Engineering Ethics Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What primarily distinguishes a profession from other occupations?

  • Advanced expertise and self-regulation (correct)
  • Ability to earn a high income
  • Opportunity for travel
  • Flexible working hours

What is the focus of ethics as a branch of philosophy?

  • Promoting individual success
  • Creating laws and regulations
  • Describing human behavior
  • Systematizing and recommending concepts of right and wrong (correct)

Which of the following is NOT considered a moral reason in ethical behavior?

  • Avoiding unnecessary offense
  • Showing gratitude and empathy
  • Being fair and just
  • Maximizing personal gain (correct)

What is a primary role of professional societies in self-regulation?

<p>Drafting codes of ethics (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the context of engineering ethics, which concept is closely tied to morality?

<p>Respecting peoples' rights (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best defines morality?

<p>Concerns of right and wrong centered on fairness and respect (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does engineering contribute to the concept of public good?

<p>By providing technological solutions to public problems (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a component of ethical behavior?

<p>Caring for others and the environment (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What constitutes a deliberate violation of a code of ethics?

<p>Ignoring ethical rules for personal gain. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is considered a limitation of codes of ethics?

<p>They often lack mechanisms for enforcement. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a consequence of ambiguity in ethical codes?

<p>They leave room for different interpretations. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How can manipulation of ethical rules occur?

<p>By exploiting loopholes to justify unethical actions. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is the main principle of utilitarianism in ethical decision making?

<p>Actions are assessed based on their outcomes and overall happiness. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does an ethical corporate climate depend upon?

<p>A combination of formal policies, informal practices, and personal commitments. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which ethical theory argues that right and wrong can vary based on cultural differences?

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

Which of the following would NOT be a common challenge in following a professional code of ethics?

<p>The code being flexible in all scenarios. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In the supermarket scenario, what would be the ethical consideration if one chooses to explain to the teenager rather than placing the ice cream back themselves?

<p>Promoting understanding and preventing future issues. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the primary reasons that codes of ethics may be ineffective?

<p>They may not precisely address all specific dilemmas. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which ethical theory emphasizes the importance of duties and moral obligations regardless of the outcomes?

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

What is the primary standard engineers must follow in their professional relations?

<p>High standards of honesty and integrity (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When a cashier gives too much change, what ethical decision might someone make based on virtue ethics?

<p>Return the extra change as honesty is a virtue. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which situation best illustrates selective application of ethical guidelines?

<p>Using guidelines only to target certain individuals while ignoring them personally. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why might someone choose to warn other drivers about a highway policeman?

<p>To promote safer driving and avoid penalties. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which obligation must engineers uphold while serving public interest?

<p>Participate in civic affairs (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which ethical theory would argue against the view of morality being based solely on personal beliefs?

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

What action should engineers take if they believe a project will not succeed?

<p>Advise their clients or employers (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In ethical discussions, what does the term 'Greatest Happiness Principle' refer to?

<p>The principle that utilitarianism evaluates actions based on the most good for the most people. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When must engineers notify their employers regarding outside employment?

<p>Before accepting any job (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is prohibited when attempting to attract an engineer from another employer?

<p>Using false or misleading pretenses (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What must engineers avoid when promoting their own interests?

<p>Diminishing the dignity and integrity of the profession (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What must engineers ensure when signing or sealing plans?

<p>Conformity with applicable engineering standards (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a way engineers can serve the public interest?

<p>Engage in self-promotion (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What must engineers obtain before promoting or arranging new employment related to a specific project?

<p>Consent of all interested parties (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which obligation states that engineers should not be influenced by conflicting interests?

<p>Obligation 5 (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following actions is NOT permissible for engineers concerning commissions?

<p>Accepting commissions from suppliers (B), Accepting allowances for recommending products (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What should engineers refrain from doing to avoid unethical advancement?

<p>Criticizing other engineers untruthfully (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a condition under which engineers in salaried positions may accept part-time work?

<p>If it complies with employer policies and ethical standards (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT an ethical obligation for engineers as specified?

<p>Criticizing competitors to gain an advantage (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What must engineers do when utilizing employers' resources for private practice?

<p>Seek consent from their employer (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What type of commission should engineers absolutely avoid accepting?

<p>Contingent commissions in compromising situations (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What must engineers disclose when issuing statements funded by interested parties?

<p>The interested parties they represent (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a requirement for engineers when preparing professional reports?

<p>Include unverifiable opinions (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is required from engineers regarding conflicts of interest?

<p>They must disclose any known or potential conflicts (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When can engineers accept compensation from more than one party for the same project?

<p>If all circumstances are fully disclosed and agreed to (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What obligation do engineers have regarding public statements?

<p>They must issue them in an objective and truthful manner (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What action must engineers avoid when working for governmental bodies?

<p>Participating in decisions regarding their own services (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an ethical obligation of engineers acting on behalf of clients?

<p>To act as faithful agents or trustees for each employer or client (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How should engineers approach technical opinions expressed publicly?

<p>Founded upon knowledge of facts and competence (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Ethical Decision-Making

Ethical decision-making involves considering the moral implications of our choices and actions, even in seemingly ordinary situations.

Utilitarianism

Utilitarianism is an ethical framework focused on maximizing overall happiness or well-being. It judges actions based on their consequences.

Ethical Relativism

Relativism states that ethical principles are not absolute and vary depending on individual or societal views.

Duty Ethics (Deontology)

Duty ethics, also called Deontology, emphasizes moral rules and obligations. Actions are judged based on adherence to these rules.

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Rights Ethics

Rights ethics emphasizes the fundamental rights and freedoms of individuals. Actions are judged based on their respect for these rights.

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Virtue Ethics

Virtue ethics emphasizes character traits and personal development. It focuses on cultivating good qualities through habitual action.

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Ethical Conduct

Engineers should always act ethically, being honest and trustworthy in their dealings with others.

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Acknowledging Errors

Engineers must acknowledge and correct any mistakes they make, rather than hiding or distorting the truth.

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Outside Employment

Engineers shouldn't take on extra work that could negatively impact their primary job or commitments.

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Recruiting Ethics

Engineers should not attempt to recruit engineers from other companies using false or misleading information.

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Professional Dignity

Engineers should prioritize the greater good of the industry over personal gain.

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Public Service

Engineers should actively contribute to the community, participating in civic affairs and supporting youth development.

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Adhering to Standards

Engineers must only sign off on plans and specifications that adhere to established engineering standards.

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Public Interest

Engineers have a responsibility to serve the public interest, ensuring the safety, health, and well-being of the community.

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What is a Profession?

Any occupation that provides a means of earning a living. It emphasizes advanced expertise, self-regulation, and serving a public good.

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Truthful Reports

Engineers must be honest and accurate in their professional reports and statements, including all relevant information.

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Engineering as a Profession

A profession that focuses on creating technological solutions to problems that affect public well-being, safety, and health.

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What is Ethics?

A branch of philosophy focused on systematically defending and recommending concepts of right and wrong conduct. It addresses moral dilemmas, good and evil, right and wrong, virtue and vice, justice and crime.

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Sharing Technical Opinions

Engineers can share their technical opinions publicly, but only if they are based on their knowledge and expertise.

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Disclosing Conflicts

Engineers must disclose any potential conflicts of interest that could affect their judgement or work quality.

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What is Morality?

Concerned primarily with right and wrong, good and bad, and the rules individuals should follow. It's about respecting others and ourselves, including being fair, just, honest, caring, and minimizing harm.

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Single Payment Rule

Engineers must avoid taking payment from multiple parties for the same project, unless everyone involved knows and agrees.

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Self-Regulation in Professions

Professional societies set standards for entering the profession, drafting ethical codes, and enforcing conduct.

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No Outside Payments

Engineers shouldn't accept gifts or payments from outside sources related to their work.

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No Conflict in Public Service

Engineers working for government or quasi-government bodies should not be involved in making decisions about services they or their organization provides.

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Advanced Expertise in Professions

Professionals have advanced expertise and use sophisticated skills and theoretical knowledge to make sound judgments.

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Public Good in Professions

Professions serve important aspects of public good by providing solutions to challenges that affect the community.

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Objective Public Statements

Engineers' public statements must be objective and truthful, avoiding any opinions that are sponsored by biased parties unless they are transparent about the sponsorship.

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Faithful Agent or Trustee

Engineers must act as loyal agents or trustees for their employers or clients.

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Conflicting Interests: Previous Project

Engineers should not take on new work related to a specific project they've worked on, especially if it involves specialized knowledge, without permission from all parties involved. This prevents conflicts of interest and ensures fairness.

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Conflicting Interests: Former Client

Engineers should not get involved in a new project where their former client or employer is an opposing party, especially if it involves specialized knowledge gained previously. This avoids using past information for a different advantage.

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Conflicting Interests: Material Suppliers

Engineers should not accept payments or favors from material suppliers for specifying their products. This ensures engineers are making decisions based on the best interests of the project, not personal gain.

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Conflicting Interests: Contractors

Engineers should not accept commissions or special payments from contractors or others involved in a project. This prevents bias and ensures an engineer's focus is on the project's success, not personal profit.

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Ethical Conduct: Respect for Other Engineers

Engineers should not criticize other engineers unfairly or use dishonest tactics to get jobs or promotions. This promotes ethical conduct and professionalism within the field.

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Ethical Conduct: Avoiding Contingent Commissions

Engineers should not accept work on a commission basis where their judgment may be compromised. This ensures their decisions are based on the project's needs, not financial incentives.

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Ethical Conduct: Part-time Work

Engineers in salaried positions should only accept part-time work if it aligns with their employer's policies and ethical guidelines. This prevents conflicts between jobs and ensures their main commitment remains with their employer.

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Ethical Conduct: Employer's Resources

Engineers should not use their employer's resources, such as equipment or facilities, for personal work without permission. This respects the employer's property and prevents a conflict of interest.

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Deliberate Violation of Ethics

Deliberately breaking ethical rules for personal gain. Examples include using confidential information improperly.

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Manipulation of Ethical Rules

Twisting ethical rules to justify unethical behavior, often by exploiting loopholes in the code.

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Selective Application of Ethics

Applying ethical guidelines to others but not following them personally or using them unfairly against specific individuals.

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Limitations of a Code of Ethics

Weaknesses or limitations in the effectiveness of a code of ethics.

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Lack of Enforcement in Ethics

The lack of mechanisms to enforce a code of ethics, leading to people ignoring it without facing consequences.

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Ambiguity in Ethical Codes

Ambiguity or unclear wording in ethical codes, making it difficult to interpret what is right in specific situations.

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Inflexibility of Ethical Codes

Ethical codes failing to cover all possible scenarios, especially in complex or rapidly changing environments.

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Cultural Differences in Ethics

Ethical codes reflecting the values of a specific group or society, potentially causing conflicts in different cultures or international contexts.

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Conflict Between Personal and Professional Ethics

Individuals having personal beliefs or values conflicting with their professional code of ethics.

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Ethical Corporate Climate

A workplace environment that promotes morally responsible conduct. It's a synergy of formal policies, informal traditions, and individual commitments.

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Factors Contributing to an Ethical Corporate Climate

Formal organization and policies, informal traditions and practices, and personal attitudes and commitments all contribute to an ethical climate.

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Synergy in Ethical Climate

The collective influence of formal structures, informal traditions, and individual values shapes the ethical atmosphere of a corporation.

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Role of Personal Attitudes

Personal attitudes and commitments, along with formal policies and informal traditions, contribute to a corporation's overall ethical climate.

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Shared Responsibility in Ethical Climate

An ethical corporate climate is not just about rules but also about promoting a shared sense of responsibility for ethical conduct.

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Going Beyond Rules in Ethical Climate

Ethical corporate climate involves more than just following rules; it requires a commitment to ethical values and a sense of personal responsibility from all employees.

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Active Effort in Ethical Climate

Creating an ethical corporate climate requires active efforts from all levels of the organization.

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Dynamic Ethical Climate

A company's ethical climate should be a dynamic and ongoing process, not just a static set of rules.

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Genuine Commitment in Ethical Climate

The success of a company's ethical climate depends on a genuine commitment to ethical values at all levels of the organization.

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Accountability in Ethical Climate

A company's ethical climate requires a commitment to ethical values, and a system of accountability to ensure those values are upheld.

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Leadership in Ethical Climate

Leadership plays a vital role in establishing and maintaining a company's ethical climate.

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Ethical Leadership

Ethical leadership involves setting high ethical standards and creating an environment where ethical behavior is encouraged and rewarded.

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Attracting and Retaining Talent

Companies with a strong ethical climate are more likely to attract and retain talented employees.

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Influences on Ethical Climate

A company's ethical climate can be influenced by factors such as its culture, industry, and regulatory environment.

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Long-term Success

A strong ethical climate contributes to a company's long-term success by fostering trust, transparency, and ethical decision-making.

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Prioritizing Ethical Climate

Companies should prioritize establishing and maintaining a strong ethical corporate climate for long-term success and sustainable growth.

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Importance of Ethical Corporate Climate

Ethical corporate climate is a crucial aspect of responsible business practices, fostering a culture of integrity and trust.

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Study Notes

Course Information

  • Course Title: GET 101 2024. Engineering In Society
  • Course Topic: Presentation 4 - ENGINEERING CODE OF CONDUCT & ETHICS
  • Date: 17/01/2025
  • Time: 06:12 PM
  • Instructors: Engr. Halima Sadia Yakubu & Dr. Ifeyinwa Obianyo

Introduction to Ethics

  • Ethics is the way people behave based on their beliefs about what is right and wrong influencing their behavior.
  • Ethics derives from the Greek word "ethos," meaning character, or what a good person is or does to have a good character.

What is Ethics?

  • Ethics (or moral philosophy) is a branch of philosophy that systematizes, defends, and recommends concepts of right and wrong conduct.
  • Ethics aims to resolve questions of human morality by defining concepts like good and evil, right and wrong, virtue and vice, and justice and crime.

Ethical Behaviour

  • Ethical behavior is characterized by honesty, fairness, and equity in interpersonal, professional, and academic relationships.
  • Ethical behavior respects the dignity, diversity, and rights of individuals and groups of people.
  • This definition is not a denial of other ethical duties regarding practice, professional service delivery, and research.

Engineering Ethics - What is Morality?

  • Morality is mainly about right and wrong, good and bad rules that should be followed.
  • Morality is centered in respect for other people and ourselves.
  • Respect for others involves being fair, just, respecting their rights, avoiding offense, avoiding dishonesty, showing gratitude, empathy and reducing damage to the environment.

Ethics vs. Morals

  • Ethics refers to rules or principles from an external source.
  • Morals refer to an individual's personal beliefs around right and wrong based on individual values.
  • Ethics are often applied in professional/social settings.
  • Morals are internally guided.
  • Example: Following medical ethics.
  • Example: Believing lying is morally wrong.

Introduction to Engineering Ethics

  • Engineering ethics is the field of applied ethics and a system of moral principles that apply to engineering practice.
  • It examines and establishes the obligations of engineers to society, clients, and the profession.
  • Engineering ethics is related to philosophy of science, philosophy of engineering, and ethics of technology.

Definition of Engineering Ethics

  • Engineering ethics is the study of moral values, issues and decisions involved in engineering practice.
  • The moral values take many forms, including responsibilities, ideal character traits, social policies, and relationships desirable for individuals and organizations engaged in technological development.
  • Engineering ethics considers issues like ensuring safety and reliability of engineering designs, protecting the environment, respecting intellectual property rights, and maintaining transparency and honesty in professional relationships.

Engineering Ethics - Commitment to Society

  • Engineering ethics includes upholding public trust by serving society's interests even if it is not in economic or political interests of individuals and organizations.
  • Engineers have to account for potential impacts of work on people, the environment, and future generations to promote sustainable and equitable outcomes.
  • Ensuring that engineers use their skills to advance human well-being, upholding professional conduct and integrity are crucial to engineering ethics.

Overview of Engineering Ethics

  • Engineering Ethics is the activity and discipline with the aim of understanding moral values, resolving moral issues,
  • and justifying moral judgements in engineering. It covers the set of moral problems and issues connected with engineering.

Why Study Engineering Ethics?

  • Professional responsibility to design technologies that are safe, reliable, and beneficial to society.
  • Legal and regulatory compliance to ensure better understanding of legal and regulatory requirements within the profession.
  • Reputation and trust for professionalism and integrity
  • Social responsibility to develop a deeper understanding of social responsibility and how to promote sustainable and equitable outcomes.
  • Engineers should follow their professional standard of ethics to avoid legal problems, providing a clear definition of public expectations regarding responsible engineers, raise the profession's image, and increase public trust.

Why Study Engineering Ethics?

  • Engineering ethics is crucial in preventing the negative consequences of faulty ethical reasoning and in giving meaning to engineers' endeavors.
  • It is a complex field that can't be understood through casual observation.
  • It aims at increasing the ability to deal effectively with moral complexity in engineering, empowering individuals to reason more clearly and rather than inculcating particular beliefs.
  • The goal is to enhance moral autonomy.

Moral Dilemma or Ethical Conundrum

  • Moral dilemmas are situations that present conflicts between two or more moral obligations.
  • There are moral obligations, duties, rights, goods, and ideals that come into conflict.
  • Example: A nurse faces a dilemma between telling the truth about a terminal patient's illness vs respecting the family's wishes to the contrary.
  • Moral dilemmas are often difficult because no obvious answer or rule exists to determine the "right" action

Resolving Moral Dilemmas or Ethical Conundrums

  • Resolving moral dilemmas requires good moral judgment.
  • It involves tasks like conceptual clarification, factual inquiries, and resolving interpersonal disagreements.

Steps in Controlling Moral Dilemmas

  • Identify relevant moral factors and reasons
  • Gather pertinent facts related to moral factors
  • Rank moral considerations by importance according to the situation
  • Consider alternative courses of action and their consequences
  • Discuss with colleagues/friends to obtain varied perspectives
  • Consider the views of all stakeholders to come to a carefully reasoned and justified judgment

Conflict of Interest

  • Conflict of interest happens when a person or organization has conflicting interests that interfere with objective decisions
  • Example: A manager whose brother is a contractor for their company.
  • Disclosure and avoidance are crucial to prevent bias
  • Ethical considerations are important in making decisions.

Ethical Decision Making

  • People make ethical decisions to make the world a better place (altruism) & to avoid unpleasant consequences.
  • Almost all societies have laws and rules specified for acceptable behavior and punishments.
  • We make ethical decisions daily in many varied situations

Ethical Theories

  • An ethical theory defines terms in uniform ways, linking ideas & problems in a coherent manner
  • Considered Theories: Relativism, Utilitarianism, Duty Ethics (Deontology), Rights Ethics, and Virtue Ethics
  • Relativism: Ethical truths depend on individuals and societies.
  • Utilitarianism: Ethical choices are judged by their outcomes, favoring those leading to the greatest overall good.
  • Duty Ethics (Deontology): Focuses on moral rules or duties, regardless of outcomes.
  • Rights Ethics: Importance of respecting individual rights and treating individuals with dignity and respect.
  • Virtue Ethics: Developing excellent character traits to guide morally right decisions

Plagiarism

  • Plagiarism is presenting another person's work or ideas as one's own.
  • It involves taking language, thoughts, ideas, or expressions and presenting them as the original work.
  • It is considered academic dishonesty and a breach of ethics.
  • Avoiding plagiarism involves careful note-taking, proper citations, and writing in one's own words.
  • Online tools available to help detect plagiarism.

Engineering Creed

  • The Engineer's Creed and the Fundamental Canons of the Code
  • Includes various rules of practice

Professional Obligations

  • Professional obligations for engineers guide actions by the highest standards of honesty and integrity.

Social Responsibility

  • Social responsibility emphasizes acting for the benefit of society (organizations and individuals)
  • Includes: Environmental Responsibility, Ethical Responsibility, Economic Responsibility, and Legal Responsibility.

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