Chapter 7 Engineering Ethics

Introduction Engineers design many products and provide many services that affect our quality of life and safety. They supervise the construction of buildings, dams, highways, bridges, mass transit systems, and power plants. Engineers must perform under a certain standard of professional behavior which requires adherence to the highest principles of ethical conduct.

Introduction As stated in the National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE) code of ethics: 1-Engineering is an important and learned profession. 2-As members of this profession, engineers are expected to exhibit the highest standards of honesty and integrity. 3-Engineering has a direct and vital impact on the quality of life for all people. Accordingly, the services provided by engineers require honesty, impartiality, fairness, and equity; and must be dedicated to the protection of the public health, safety, and welfare. 4- Engineers must perform under a standard of professional behavior which requires adherence to the highest principles of ethical conduct.

Why Study Engineering Ethics? Because it is the right thing to do. Because it is required. Because it is part (a crucial part) of being a modern engineer or scientist Because it may save lives. Because it may keep you out of trouble. Because it may protect some tender parts of your body or soul from legal assault.

Engineering Ethics Case Study 1 I am a senior seeking employment. In January, I am offered a job by company X for $4500/month, and I am given 10 days to accept their offer. I accept their offer. Two weeks later, I receive an offer of $5000/month, and a more exciting position from company Y. What do I do? For class discussion

Personal Ethics - everyday examples Software piracy Copying of homework or tests Income taxes “Borrowing” nuts and bolts, office supplies from employer Copying of Videos or CD’s Using the copy machine at work

Ethics Morals – differ from person to person – based on personal beliefs – often religion and upbringing Legal – what behavior is legal and illegal Ethics – code of conduct (behavior) based on personal morals and legalities

Some Solid Rules (guidelines) Accept personal responsibility Avoid conflict of interest Maintain your technical competence Seek, accept, and offer honest criticism Treat people fairly (regardless of race, age, sex, national origin, religion) Avoid injuring others Assist others in following these guidelines Based on the IEEE code of ethics

Code of Ethics for Engineers (stated by NSPE) Fundamental Canons 1-Hold paramount (essential) the safety, health and welfare of the public. 2-Perform services only in areas of their competence 3-Issue public statements only in an objective and truthful manner. 4-Act for each employer or client as faithful agents or trustees. 5-Avoid deceptive acts. 6-Conduct themselves honorably, responsibly, and lawfully so as to Enhance the honor, reputation and usefulness of the profession.

Code of Ethics for Engineers Rule of Practice A professional engineer shall recognize that professional ethics are founded upon integrity, competence and devotion to service and to the advancement of human welfare. This concept shall guide the conduct of the professional engineer at all times. Duties to the public Duties to the client or employer Duties to the profession This first Article is general and will apply in many cases - usually there is something more specific to go along with it. The rest of the Code divides into three categories, duties to the public - which rank highest is our responsibility, duties to the client or employer, and then duties to the profession. As anyone who examines a professional code of ethics usually discovers, it is a combination of statements based in accepted moral philosophy and other statements which might be more accurately described as “rules of the game”. There is nothing wrong with this; it is surely good to have a set of accepted rules to govern professional relationships.

Engineer’s Creed The engineer’s creed, which was adopted by NSPE in 1954, is a statement of belief, similar to the Hippocratic oath taken by medical practitioners. It was developed to state the engineering philosophy of service in a brief way. The NSPE engineer’s creed is: • To give the utmost of performance; • To participate in none but honest enterprise; To live and work according to the laws of man and the highest standards of professional conduct; and • To place ■ service before profit, ■ the honor and standing of the profession before personal advantage, and ■ the public welfare above all other considerations. The engineer’s creed is typically used in graduation ceremonies or licensure certificate presentations.