Engineering ethics

Engineering ethics is a specialized field of study. It focuses on the moral principles applied to engineering practice. This discipline examines the specific obligations engineers hold. They must answer to society, their clients, and their profession. The field is closely linked to the philosophy of science. It also connects to the philosophy of engineering and the ethics of technology. Business ethics often overlaps with these decisions.

Engineers follow specific codes of ethics to guide their work. These codes establish a clear hierarchy of duties. The most important value is the safety and welfare of the public. This is often called the paramount value. Engineers must also act as faithful agents for their clients. They are expected to avoid conflicts of interest. Honesty and objectivity are required in all public statements. They must also work only within their areas of competence. Professionalism requires them to treat all people fairly. This includes respecting differences in race, gender, and religion.

Historically, the profession faced many difficult challenges. In the 19th century, engineers were often divided. Some worked as independent practitioners. Others were technical employees of large industrial companies. This created tension regarding who controlled engineering work. Large employers fought to maintain control over their employees. During this time, ethics were seen as personal matters. They were not yet viewed as broad professional requirements. This changed as the engineering profession grew more distinct.

Several major disasters forced the profession to change. In 1876, the Ashtabula River Railroad Disaster occurred. In 1879, the Tay Bridge collapsed and killed at least sixty people. The Quebec Bridge collapse happened in 1907. In 1919, the Boston molasses disaster took place. These structural failures had a profound effect. They forced engineers to confront technical and ethical shortcomings. These events provided the impetus for professional licensing. Licensing requires specific education, experience, and testing.

Professional societies helped establish these new standards. The American Society of Civil Engineers was founded in 1851. The American Institute of Mining Engineers followed in 1871. The American Society of Mechanical Engineers formed in 1880. The American Institute of Electrical Engineers started in 1884. The AIEE adopted a code of ethics in 1912. The ASCE and ASME both adopted codes in 1914. In 1946, the National Society of Professional Engineers released its own rules. By 1964, these rules evolved into the current Code of Ethics.

Licensing models differ between countries. In Canada, the model is very strict. All engineers working in risky fields must be licensed. This includes risks to life, health, property, and the environment. Every province required licensing by the 1950s. The United States uses a different model. Only engineers offering services that impact public welfare must be licensed. Engineers in private industry or government often do not need licenses. This has created a split between professional engineers and private industry workers.

Symbolic traditions also help uphold these values. The Canadian Iron Ring and the American Order of the Engineer exist. Both trace their roots to the 1907 Quebec Bridge collapse. Members swear an oath to uphold ethical practice. They wear a symbolic ring as a constant reminder. In the United States, the Board of Ethical Review was created in 1954. This board has released nearly 500 advisory opinions. These opinions help clarify daily ethical issues.

Modern engineering ethics continues to evolve. Professional societies now address bribery and political corruption. They also look at new global challenges. These include offshoring and sustainable development. Environmental protection is also a major focus. Many codes now include the principle of sustainable development. Engineers must balance the interests of the public with the needs of the environment. The goal is to protect both present and future generations.