Ethics in Environmental Engineering

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Questions and Answers

What primary action does the city undertake with the slug mentioned in the text?

Stores it for further analysis.

Exports it to other cities.

Discards it in landfills.

Processes it into fertilizer. (correct)

What is the engineer's initial assessment regarding the company's pollution controls?

They require significant enhancements. (correct)

They are better than competing companies'.

They are compliant with the law.

They are perfectly adequate.

Why does the engineer's supervisor discourage implementing stronger pollution controls?

Because they are awaiting a new law on pollution.

Because it is not a priority for the company.

Due to the excessive cost of such measures. (correct)

Because the current controls are over-engineered.

What action is the engineer scheduled to undertake involving town officials?

To testify regarding the matter in question. (B) Signup and view all the answers

According to the material, what initial step helps identify moral values relevant to a situation?

Discussing with colleagues. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of these is presented as a means of interpreting moral frameworks in the context of identifying moral values?

Applying professional codes of ethics. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the main focus when 'identifying relevant moral values'?

Considering obligations, duties, rights and goods. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What are some of the resources mentioned in the text for 'identifying the relevant moral values'?

Talking with colleagues, interpreting moral frameworks, etc. (B) Signup and view all the answers

When faced with a dilemma, what is a recommended initial step for considering all possible solutions?

Openly listing all options and sub-options, regardless of likelihood. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Before informing external authorities, what should an individual attempt when resolving a work related moral dilemma?

Consider many options through careful analysis and deliberation (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the essence of arriving at a carefully reasoned decision about a moral issue?

Deliberating and weighing all relevant reasons, facts and values in a moral manner. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of an ethical dilemma?

A conflict arises where it isn't obvious which action should be taken. (C) Signup and view all the answers

When do ethical codes and theories become insufficient in resolving a dilemma?

When two codes, canons, or principles conflict with each other. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What does a 'Right-or-Wrong' ethical dilemma imply?

One action is obligatory, and failure to do so is unethical. (D) Signup and view all the answers

According to the provided material, what is essential for a reasonable solution to an ethical dilemma?

It should be clear, informed, and well-reasoned. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT presented in the text as an example of unethical behavior?

Requesting assistance with homework or tests. (B) Signup and view all the answers

In a 'Better-Worse' ethical dilemma, what is the main objective?

To determine which of several permissible actions is the best. (B) Signup and view all the answers

In the context of resolving ethical dilemmas, what does 'Moral Clarity' primarily refer to?

Understanding your own moral principles and values. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the ultimate goal when deciding the best option in a 'Better-Worse' dilemma?

To choose the option that will yield the most good. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What approach is suggested to fully consider all options, including sub-options, when analyzing a moral dilemma?

Writing down the main options and sub-options in a decision tree or matrix. (A) Signup and view all the answers

What does 'Conceptual Clarity' involve in the process of resolving ethical dilemmas?

Understanding the meanings of the concepts and terms involved. (D) Signup and view all the answers

According to the steps for resolving ethical dilemmas, what should one be 'Informed' about?

Both the facts of the situation and the available options. (C) Signup and view all the answers

In engineering ethics, what does 'weighing and balancing conflicting moral values' refer to?

Making informed value judgments when moral principles conflict. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary ethical concern in the provided scenario where a chemical engineer discovers their company might be discharging illegal amounts of lead and arsenic?

The potential environmental and public health hazards. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary ethical conflict Engineer A faces regarding the software testing?

Reconciling the desire to meet current standards with the potential for upcoming standards. (D) Signup and view all the answers

Why might delaying the software implementation be problematic for the company?

It may cause a significant rise in public service utility rates. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of the new software design is most directly related to the ethical dilemma faced by Engineer A?

The potential for the software to be unsafe under new standards. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What was the main cause for the aluminum company being divided in the case study?

It had a monopoly over the market. (D) Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of the picnic anecdote with the can opener in the aluminum can case?

It suggests that everyday problems could also be part of design solutions. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for teaching basic design and ethics together?

To address ethical dilemmas that frequently arise in the design processes. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What action would be most ethical for Engineer A?

To recommend additional testing even though it will be expensive and time consuming. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What does the case study of the aluminum can company primarily illustrate?

The need to involve environmental protection in the design process. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What is the core tenet of ethical objectivism?

Some moral judgements are universally valid for everyone. (A) Signup and view all the answers

An ethical approach that focuses on identifying and recording existing professional ethical practices, is best described as:

Ethical Pragmatism (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a stated characteristic of an effective approach to ethics?

Flexibility and adaptability (D) Signup and view all the answers

An engineer is offered a job at a company involved in genetic engineering and cloning, what should be the first step in the decision making process?

Identify all relevant ethical dilemmas, facts, and parties involved. (A) Signup and view all the answers

When presented with an ethical dilemma, what is an essential aspect to consider when making an ethical analysis?

Identify and analyze all parties and factors involved (B) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best describes the role of an engineer in ethical decision making?

Engineers are engaged participants, actively shaping ethical solutions. (C) Signup and view all the answers

According to the provided text, what is a key characteristic shared by both design and ethical decision-making?

Presence of uncertainties and ambiguities. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which statement accurately describes the limitations of ethical decision making?

Ethical problems are often dynamic, with solutions creating additional problems. (B) Signup and view all the answers

What does a code of ethics, as defined here, primarily represent for engineers?

The profession's collective commitment to moral responsibilities and freedom to act. (C) Signup and view all the answers

What does the concept of 'professional judgment' imply in the context of engineering ethics?

The necessity for engineers to make choices based on their understanding of the profession's ethical standards. (A) Signup and view all the answers

According to the NSPE Code of Ethics, what is the primary focus of the first five canons of their ethical code?

Engineers’ obligations to the public and society. (A) Signup and view all the answers

According to the provided text, what does NSPE’s sixth canon focus on?

A focus on engineers’ obligations to the engineering profession. (A) Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of an ethical responsibility all engineers must follow according to the NSPE Code of Ethics, as mentioned in the text?

To only perform tasks in areas where they are competent. (C) Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Engineering Ethics Chapter 2

Chapter 2 of Engineering Ethics, prepared by Dr. Omar Alkhatib, Dr. Mohammed Hamadan and Jon and modified by Mohammed Esmaail Shakfah, covers topics related to resolving ethical dilemmas, making moral choices, and codes of ethics.
The document was prepared in Spring 2021.

2.1 Resolving Ethical Dilemmas
2.2 Making Moral Choices
2.3 Codes of Ethics

Personal Ethics - Everyday Examples

Borrowing nuts and bolts, office supplies from employer
Copying videos or CDs
Plagiarism
Using copy machines at work
Software piracy
Expense account padding
Copying homework or tests

Ethics Vocabulary

Ethical dilemmas are situations where moral reasons conflict, or moral values are unclear.
Routine moral decision-making in engineering often requires weighing and balancing conflicting values.
A reasonable solution to an ethical dilemma must be clear, informed, and well-reasoned.

Steps in Resolving Ethical Dilemmas

Moral Clarity: Identifying relevant moral values
Conceptual Clarity: Clarifying key concepts (e.g., holding paramount, safety, welfare)
Informed about the Facts: Obtaining relevant information, being certain about the facts
Informed about the Options: Considering all potential options, including unlikely ones
Well-Reasoned: Weighing relevant moral reasons and facts, careful reasoning

Case Study: Chemical Engineer

A chemical engineer discovers her company may be illegally discharging lead and arsenic into the city sewer.
Her supervisor argues the cost of pollution controls is too high, and the company is in compliance with the law.
The engineer is scheduled to testify before town officials.
The engineer needs to consider alternatives, including the safety implications of lead and arsenic discharge and perhaps speaking to colleagues.

Moral Clarity (Details)

Identifying relevant moral values and reasons in a situation
Including obligations, duties, rights, goods, ideals, and other moral considerations
Using resources like:
- Talking to colleagues
- Interpreting moral frameworks
- Applying professional codes of ethics

Conceptual Clarity (Details)

Clarifying relevant concepts in a specific case study.
Examples: Holding paramount, Safety, Welfare, Threat, Danger, Truthful, etc

Steps in Resolving Ethical Dilemmas (page 9)

Professionalism requires being a faithful agent of one's employer but doing what is good for the corporation long-term versus a supervisor's short-term goals.
This could involve conflict when a supervisor's actions might harm the long-term interests of the corporation.

Informed about the Facts (Details)

Gathering relevant information in regard to moral values.
Making certain of the facts
Uncertainty about the facts can be a key difficulty in resolving moral dilemmas.

Steps in Resolving Ethical Dilemmas (page 11)

The chemical engineer must carefully check findings and consult colleagues for perspectives.
The need to understand the potential harm caused by specific quantities of lead and arsenic over time and its seriousness.

Informed about the Options (Details)

Consider all options, not just obvious ones
List all options and sub-options, even unlikely ones
Writing down options as a matrix or decision tree can facilitate consideration of all options
Examples being careful with a supervisor's orders or blowing the whistle.

Well-Reasoned

Arriving at a carefully reasoned judgment by considering all relevant moral reasons and facts.
Not a mechanical process; a more thorough deliberation where all facts, reasons, and values are considered in a manner consistent with moral values.
Ethical codes can help, but they may not resolve all dilemmas or situations, and sometimes different codes or principles conflict.

Right-Wrong or Better-Worse?

Right-wrong dilemmas: A clear course of action is obligatory, and deviating from it may be unethical
Better-worse dilemmas: Several solutions exist, none completely mandatory. Choosing the best option will likely require careful consideration of possible moral implications.

Steps in Resolving Ethical Dilemmas (Page 15)

Obeying the law and adhering to engineering standards
Avoiding bribes and speaking/writing truthfully.
Maintaining confidentiality

Case Study: Industrial owner

Engineer A examines certain lands next to an industrial facility.
The owner's attorney requests that A won't share data outside the legal process.
A signs a confidentiality agreement.

Case Study: Software Engineering Engineer

An engineer (A) designs specialized software.
Software passes current tests, but is subject to new, stringent standards likely to make current testing insufficient.
Company wants to move forward quickly but also maintain quality.
Potential conflicts between short-term gains and long-term ramifications, company finances, and employee jobs.

2-Making Moral Choices (Page 18)

Case Study: Aluminum Cans
- US company controlled the aluminum can market since 1925, and often asked other companies to consult.
- Monopolies were present and questioned as a "crime in US."
- Managers had a picnic and needed aluminum can openers, but this inadvertently had a larger implication in asking employees to solve the issue.

Design Analogy: Whitbeck (page 19)

Moral decision-making is similar to the engineering design process.
Both design and ethical decision-making involve:
- Engaged participation
- Process similarities
- Uncertainties and ambiguities being always present
- Problems being dynamic (cluster of problems that evolve over time).

3-Code of Ethics

Codes of ethics represent a profession's collective commitment to ethics; they identify engineers' responsibilities & the freedom to exercise professional judgment.
Example codes include NSPE (National Society of Professional Engineers).

3-Code of Ethics (NSPE) (Page 22)

Hold paramount the safety, health, and welfare of the public.
Perform services only in areas of competence.
Issue public statements in an objective & truthful manner.
Act in professional matters as faithful agents/trustees.
Avoid deceptive acts.
Conduct oneself honorably, responsibly, ethically, and lawfully to enhance the profession's honor.

Importance of Codes

Serving & Protecting the Public: Engineers have a fiduciary relationship with the public
Guidance: Codes outline ethical responsibilities and give guidance for decision-making.
Inspiration: Codes inspire a collective commitment from engineers to uphold public good
Shared Standards: Ethical standards are created to address a diverse set of moral views
Supportive Roles for Responsible Professionals: Gives ethical tools for when pressured by parties acting against professional codes.
Education & Mutual Understanding: Codes help the public, government organizations, and other professionals understand the moral obligations of engineers.
Deterrence & Discipline Codes facilitate investigation of unethical actions and can deter such conduct.
Contributing to the Profession's Image Demonstrates engineering as an ethical profession committed to the public's interests.

Abuse of Codes

Codes may not be acted upon or seriously enforced.
Can stifle dissent; if taken absolutely rather than principles, then engineers can't honestly discuss various code provisions and obligations, which can hide immoral actions.
Can restrict honest moral effort or restrain commerce.

Limitations of Codes

Codes can have vague language, leading to unclear meanings.
Conflicting entries are sometimes a problem within a code.
Proliferation of multiple codes addressing different disciplines can become challenging.

Ethical Relativism

Subjective Relativism: Moral judgments are based on individual preference.
Cultural Relativism: Moral judgments depend on the norms of a particular culture, so certain actions are regarded as right or wrong within that culture alone.
Emotivism: View that moral judgments express emotions, aiming to influence others, but not supported by valid moral reasons.
Ethical Objectivism: Moral judgments are universally valid.
Ethical Pragmatism: Understanding a code of ethics by recognizing and recording ethical obligations already practised by the profession.

Justification of Codes

Clarity and Coherence: Codes need clear, consistent language.
Systematic and Comprehensive: Cover a broad range of relevant situations/ethics.
Compatibility with Moral Conviction: Align with generally acceptable moral beliefs

Mini-Project (1): Genetic Engineering and Cloning

Ethical dilemma: Should an engineer accept a scholarship position in a genetically engineered product company involved in cloning, stem research, agricultural, medical, and military applications?
Steps to address the ethical dilemma:
- Discuss the ethical dilemma
- Identify relevant facts
- Identify involved parties/factors
- Discuss relevant code of ethics principles

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Description

This quiz explores key ethical considerations and dilemmas faced by engineers in the context of environmental pollution. It addresses the primary actions taken by the city, assessments made by engineers regarding pollution controls, and how moral values are identified in practice. Test your understanding of these crucial issues in engineering ethics.