Engineering Ethics: Moral Theories, Codes, and Professional Responsibilities - Exam 1

What is the primary focus of engineering ethics?

To define proper courses of action for engineers in their professional dealings.

How can responsible engineers impact society?

Responsible and honest engineers contribute positively, while corrupt ones can be dangerous.

What is notable about the field of engineering ethics?

It is one of the most influential yet youngest professional ethics.

What characterizes the Pre-conventional Level of moral development?

Individuals are motivated by submission to power and the desire to avoid punishment.

What defines the Conventional Level of moral development?

The individual accepts group norms and is motivated by the desire to please others.

What is the Post-conventional Level of moral development?

Individuals act based on what is morally reasonable for their own sake, questioning group customs.

What does Utilitarianism focus on in moral decision-making?

Maximizing utility by considering the good and bad consequences of actions.

What does Right Ethics suggest about moral actions?

An action is morally right if it does not violate the rights of others.

What is Duty Ethics?

It maintains that certain duties must be performed regardless of the outcomes.

What does Virtue Ethics emphasize?

An action is right if it supports good character traits and wrong if it shows bad character traits.

What is the purpose of codes of engineering ethics?

To establish standards of conduct that protect the public and uphold the integrity of the profession.

What is the first Fundamental Canon of engineering ethics?

Engineers must hold paramount the safety, health, and welfare of the public.

What does the second Fundamental Canon state?

Engineers shall perform services only in areas of their competence.

What is the third Fundamental Canon regarding public statements?

Engineers shall issue public statements only in an objective and truthful manner.

What does the fourth Fundamental Canon require of engineers?

Engineers must act as faithful agents or trustees for each employer or client.

What is the fifth Fundamental Canon about deceptive acts?

Engineers shall avoid deceptive acts in their professional duties.

What is the sixth Fundamental Canon related to professional conduct?

Engineers must conduct themselves honorably, responsibly, ethically, and lawfully.

What should engineers do if their judgment is overruled under dangerous circumstances?

They must notify their employer or client and appropriate authorities.

What is required of engineers regarding the approval of engineering documents?

They shall approve only those documents that conform to applicable standards.

What is the rule regarding confidentiality in engineering practice?

Engineers shall not reveal facts or data without prior consent unless required by law.

What should engineers do if they know of a violation of the Code of Ethics?

They must report it to appropriate professional bodies and cooperate with authorities.

What is the significance of reliability in engineering ethics?

Reliability is considered a virtue, and conscientious engineers are seen as virtuous.

What is the relationship between engineering ethics and public trust?

Ethical conduct builds and preserves the integrity and reputation of the engineering profession.

What does the term 'conscientiousness' refer to in engineering ethics?

It refers to the obligation of engineers to serve their fellow humans effectively and responsibly.

How do engineers' professional duties impact society?

Their services directly affect the quality of life and require adherence to ethical standards.

What is the role of engineers in relation to public statements?

They must be objective and truthful, including all relevant information in their communications.

What is the expectation for engineers regarding their qualifications?

They must not falsify qualifications or misrepresent their or their associates' abilities.

What should engineers not offer to secure work?

Any gift or other valuable consideration.

Who can engineers pay commissions to secure work?

Only bona fide employees or bona fide established commercial or marketing agencies.

What is the primary duty of engineers towards their employers or clients?

To act as faithful agents or trustees.

What must engineers disclose regarding conflicts of interest?

All known or potential conflicts that could influence their judgment or the quality of their services.

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

No, unless the circumstances are fully disclosed and agreed to by all interested parties.

What should engineers do if their client insists on unprofessional conduct?

Notify the proper authorities and withdraw from further service on the project.

What is one obligation of engineers to the public?

To strive to serve the public interest.

What should engineers do if they make an error?

Acknowledge their errors and not distort or alter the facts.

What should engineers avoid in their professional conduct?

All conduct or practice that deceives the public.

What is prohibited regarding employment or advancement for engineers?

Obtaining employment or advancement by untruthfully criticizing other engineers.

What should engineers do before accepting outside employment?

Notify their employers.

What must engineers not disclose without consent?

Confidential information concerning the business affairs or technical processes of any client or employer.

What must engineers do regarding proprietary interests?

Give credit for engineering work to those to whom credit is due.

What should engineers do if they believe others are guilty of unethical practice?

Present such information to the proper authority for action.

What must engineers do regarding designs supplied by a client?

Recognize that the designs remain the property of the client and may not be duplicated without express permission.

What is the responsibility of engineers regarding their professional activities?

To accept personal responsibility for their professional activities.

What should engineers do if they gain specialized knowledge from a former client?

Not participate in or represent an adversary interest without consent.

What must engineers avoid regarding financial considerations?

Accepting financial or other considerations from material or equipment suppliers for specifying their product.

What is the obligation of engineers regarding the use of employer's resources?

Not to use equipment or facilities of an employer for outside private practice without consent.

What should engineers do before undertaking work that may justify copyrights or patents?

Enter into a positive agreement regarding ownership.

What is the ethical stance engineers must maintain in their professional relationships?

Be guided by the highest standards of honesty and integrity.

What should engineers do to extend public knowledge of engineering?

Endeavor to extend public knowledge and appreciation of engineering and its achievements.

What is the role of engineers in civic affairs?

Seek opportunities to participate in civic affairs and work for community well-being.

What must engineers do regarding their judgment when accepting commissions?

Not accept commissions on a contingent basis that may compromise their judgment.

What should engineers do if they are in a position to review another engineer's work?

Do so only with the knowledge of that engineer or if their connection has been terminated.

What is the ethical guideline for engineers regarding advertising?

Avoid statements that contain material misrepresentation of fact.

What should engineers do regarding their designs, data, and records related to an employer's work?

Recognize that they are the employer's property.