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Lambèr Royakkers

There is an increasing attention to ethics in engineering practice. Engineers are supposed not only to carry out their work competently and skilfully, but also to be aware of the broader ethical and social implications of engineering and to be able to reflect on these. According to the Engineering Criteria 2000 of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) in the US, engineers must have “an understanding of professional and ethical responsibility” and should "understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global and societal context.”

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There is an increasing attention to ethics in engineering practice. Engineers are supposed not only to carry out their work competently and skilfully, but also to be aware of the broader ethical and social implications of engineering and to be able to reflect on these. According to the Engineering Criteria 2000 of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) in the US, engineers must have “an understanding of professional and ethical responsibility” and should "understand the impact of engineering solutions in a global and societal context.”

This course provides an introduction to ethics in engineering and technology. It helps engineers and students in engineering to acquire the competences mentioned in the ABET criteria or comparable criteria formulated in other countries. More specifically, this course helps engineers to acquire the following moral competencies:

- Moral sensibility: the ability to recognize social and ethical issues in engineering;

- Moral analysis skills: the ability to analyse moral problems in terms of facts, values, stakeholders and their interests;

- Moral creativity: the ability to think out different options for action in the light of (conflicting) moral values and the relevant facts;

- Moral judgement skills: the ability to give a moral judgement on the basis of different ethical theories or frameworks including professional ethics and common sense morality;

- Moral decision-making skills: the ability to reflect on different ethical theories and frameworks and to make a decision based on that reflection.

With respect to these competencies, our focus is on the concrete moral problems that engineers encounter in their professional practice. With the help of concrete cases is shown how the decision to develop a technology, as well as the process of design and production, is inherently moral. The attention of the learners is drawn towards the specific moral choices that engineers face. In relation to these concrete choices learners will encounter different reasons for and against certain actions, and they will discover that these reasons can be discussed. In this way, learners become aware of the moral dimensions of technology and acquire the argumentative capacities that are needed in moral debates with stakeholders (e.g. governments, users, and commercial business departments).

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What's inside

Syllabus

Introduction
This module offers a short introduction to the course. The lecture will show a video in which Micaela dos Ramos, executive director of KIVI (the largest professional association of engineers in the Netherlands), illustrates the relevance of ethics for engineers.
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The responsibility of engineers
This module discusses the responsibility of engineers. We will investigate what exactly responsibility is, distinguishing between passive responsibility for things that happened in the past and active responsibility for things not yet attained. Furthermore, we will discuss the professional responsibility of engineers, examine the consequences for this responsibility, such as whistle-blowing and the application of the precautionary principle.
Codes of conduct
In this module, we discuss the role of codes of conduct in engineering. In particular, we focus on professional codes as they have been proposed by professional engineering societies and on corporate codes, as they have been formulated by companies. We discuss these two types of codes, their structure and their content, and a number of common objections that have been levelled against codes of conduct. This includes the problem that someone is acting according to the code, but that it may nevertheless lead to dismissal.
Normative ethics
In this module we will discuss some ethical theories that have been developed by various philosophers. Ethical theories help us to sort out our thinking and to develop a coherent and justifiable basis for dealing with moral questions. The role of ethical theories is to provide certain arguments or reasons for a moral judgment. They provide a normative framework for understanding and responding to moral problems, so improving ethical decision-making or, at least, avoiding certain shortcuts, such as neglecting certain relevant features of the problem or just stating an opinion without any justification. In this module we shall therefore introduce three of the most well-known ethical theories: consequentialism, duty ethics and virtue ethics. These theories each have their own criteria with which they determine whether an action is right or wrong. Before we go into these three theories we shall discuss what we mean by morality and ethics, and we shall look into the points of departure of ethics: values, norms, and virtues. These points of departure often recur in ethical theories.
The ethical cycle
Engineers will encounter in their professional life some difficult moral situations. Such situations call for moral judgment, using the tools we have introduced in the preceding modules. However, moral judgment is not a straightforward or linear process in which you simply apply ethical theories to find out what to do. Instead it is a process in which the formulation of the moral problem, the formulation of possible ‘solutions’, and the ethical judging of these solutions go hand in hand. This messy character of moral problems, however, does not rule out a systematic approach. In this module we describe a systematic approach to problem solving that does justice to the complex nature of moral problems and moral judgment: the ethical cycle. Our goal is to provide a structured method of addressing moral problems which helps to guide a sound analysis of these problems.
Ethical questions in the design of technology
Disasters like the Challenger illustrates the importance of design to engineering. In this case, as in other cases, the design phase was crucial for the proper working of a technology and possible risks and other side effects. The example also shows the importance of activities that are closely related to design like testing, certification and inspection. Second, the example shows that most design involves trade-offs. In wheel design for trains, e.g., a trade-off is faced between energy (and cost) efficiency and comfort. We start with a description of what designing is and what type of ethical issues may arise in the various stages of the design process. Next, we shall take a closer look at one aspect of the design: the choice between different conceptual designs in the light of design requirements and trade-offs.
Designing morality
Technological artefacts can be politically or morally charged. This means that ethics is not just a matter of people but also of things. To better understand, the moral role of technological artefacts, we will elaborate this notion of ‘technological mediation’. After this, the implications of this mediation approach for ethics will be investigated, especially to what extent we can moralize technology.
Ethical aspects of technological risks
To a certain extent hazards are inherent to technology. In this module, we shall discuss the moral issues that are raised by the risks and hazards of technologies, and how engineers can deal with those issues. We will discuss the current methods for assessing risks, and the moral acceptability of technological risks.
Distribution of responsibility
It is often very difficult to pinpoint responsibility and blame in cases in which many people are involved in an activity and in which many causes contributed to a disaster. Dealing with the problem of many hands requires attention for the distribution of responsibility in engineering. In this module we will discuss how responsibilities are actually distributed in engineering, and how the resulting responsibility distribution can be evaluated in terms of moral fairness (are the appropriate persons held responsible?) and in terms of effectiveness (does the responsibility distribution contribute to avoiding harm and in achieving beneficial results?)
Exam

Good to know

Know what's good
, what to watch for
, and possible dealbreakers
Teaches about ethical implications, which are critical for professional practice in engineering
Develops skills for navigating ethical issues and making sound decisions
Covers the latest scholarship in engineering ethics, including the ethical cycle and designing morality
Instructors are recognized for their expertise in engineering ethics
Examines case studies, which provide practical examples of ethical dilemmas and solutions
Requires some background knowledge in engineering, which may not be suitable for all learners

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Reviews summary

Informative and practical introduction to ethics in engineering

Learners say that this course delivers engaging assignments like case studies that largely positive and highly relevant to real-world engineering roles. Students emphasized that this course provides critical thinking and ethical reasoning skills in the context of engineering, making it well received by learners.
Clear and well-organized content that provides valuable insights into ethics in engineering.
"A really well designed course that provides critical and ethical thinking in area that greatly impacts our daily lives and significantly influences our future."
"A truly amazing course on Ethics in Engineering. I thoroughly enjoyed every concept of this course."
"The materials are very well prepared and presented. The accumulation of new knowledge goes smoothly and the modules are very coherent."
The course is very relevant to daily engineering practices, with engaging case studies.
"Great course. Great information, and well laid out. Even with some training in ethics and technology I learned plenty of new material."
"The accumulation of new knowledge goes smoothly and the modules are very coherent."
"Almost each chapter (hence, week of the course) was in some way relevant to my work (consultancy)."
The course effectively enhances critical thinking and problem-solving abilities in engineering ethics.
"This course changed my perception on ethics relevant to my profession. The course is useful for not only engineers but for scientists and other professionals."
"I really enjoyed taking this course. Most of the modules require critical thinking skills that I think helped me develop in terms of getting the proper approach to the questions."
"I very much enjoyed the material and case studies."
Test questions sometimes focus on sentence structure rather than comprehension of the material.
"The final module exams seemed to test more on sentence structure, double negatives, basically ones comprehensive skills than understanding of the material."
"I felt alot of it was more open ended than not."
Insufficient instructor feedback and limited interaction hinder the learning experience.
"The format of the course is extremely enjoyable, yet sometimes i didnt get proper feedback from tests"
"I feel like my only complaint would be that I just wish that I could reach out to the instructor."
"Interaction between students is almost non-existent, so do not expect interesting debates with your fellow-course followers."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Ethics, Technology and Engineering with these activities:
Follow online tutorials on ethical decision-making
Enhance your knowledge of ethical decision-making frameworks and techniques by completing interactive tutorials that provide practical guidance.
Browse courses on Ethical Decision-Making
Show steps
  • Search for online tutorials on ethical decision-making.
  • Select a tutorial that aligns with your learning goals.
  • Follow the tutorial and complete the exercises and assessments.
Participate in a peer-led discussion group
Engage with your peers to discuss and debate ethical dilemmas, share perspectives, and enhance your understanding of the course material.
Browse courses on Ethical Decision-Making
Show steps
  • Join or form a peer-led discussion group.
  • Prepare for each discussion by reading the assigned material and considering the ethical issues.
  • Participate actively in discussions, sharing your insights and listening to others' perspectives.
Refresh your understanding of ethical theories
Review the concepts of consequentialism, duty ethics, and virtue ethics to enhance your ability to analyze and resolve ethical dilemmas in engineering.
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  • Summarize the key principles and assumptions of consequentialism, duty ethics, and virtue ethics.
  • Identify the strengths and weaknesses of each ethical theory.
  • Apply these ethical theories to real-world engineering case studies.
Five other activities
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Show all eight activities
Read and critique a book on engineering ethics
Expand your understanding of engineering ethics by reading a well-respected book on the topic and critically evaluating its arguments and case studies.
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  • Read the book and take notes on key concepts.
  • Summarize the main arguments and case studies presented in the book.
  • Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of the book's ethical analysis.
  • Write a critical review of the book.
Attend a workshop on ethical issues in engineering
Engage with experts and professionals in the field of engineering ethics by attending a workshop that provides in-depth knowledge and practical insights.
Browse courses on Professional Development
Show steps
  • Research upcoming workshops on ethical issues in engineering.
  • Identify a workshop that aligns with your learning goals.
  • Register for the workshop.
  • Attend the workshop and actively participate in discussions and activities.
Volunteer for an organization that promotes ethical engineering
Gain practical experience in applying ethical principles by volunteering for an organization that advocates for responsible engineering practices.
Browse courses on Professional Development
Show steps
  • Research organizations that promote ethical engineering.
  • Identify an organization that aligns with your interests and values.
  • Contact the organization and express your interest in volunteering.
  • Participate in volunteer activities and contribute to the organization's mission.
Write an ethical analysis of a technological artifact
Develop your critical thinking and communication skills by examining the ethical implications of a specific technological artifact and presenting your findings in a well-written analysis.
Browse courses on Ethics of Technology
Show steps
  • Select a technological artifact and research its ethical implications.
  • Analyze the artifact's design, purpose, and potential impacts.
  • Formulate an ethical argument and support it with evidence.
  • Write a clear and concise ethical analysis.
Create a project to address an ethical issue in engineering
Demonstrate your ability to apply ethical principles to a real-world engineering problem by designing and implementing a project that addresses the issue.
Browse courses on Capstone Project
Show steps
  • Identify an ethical issue in engineering that you want to address.
  • Develop a project proposal outlining your goals, methods, and expected outcomes.
  • Implement your project, ensuring that you consider ethical implications at each stage.
  • Evaluate the outcomes of your project and assess its ethical impact.

Career center

Learners who complete Ethics, Technology and Engineering will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Chemical Engineer
Chemical Engineers apply principles of physics, chemistry, and mathematics to solve problems involving the production or use of chemicals, fuels, drugs, food, and many other products. This course provides a foundation in ethics, which is important for Chemical Engineers who must consider the ethical implications of their work, such as the environmental impact of their designs or the safety of their products. The course also covers topics such as codes of conduct, normative ethics, and the ethical cycle, which are all essential for Chemical Engineers to understand and apply in their work.
Environmental Engineer
Environmental Engineers design and implement solutions to environmental problems, such as pollution control, waste management, and water treatment. This course provides a foundation in ethics, which is important for Environmental Engineers who must consider the ethical implications of their work, such as the environmental impact of their designs or the safety of their projects. The course also covers topics such as codes of conduct, normative ethics, and the ethical cycle, which are all essential for Environmental Engineers to understand and apply in their work.
Nuclear Engineer
Nuclear Engineers design and operate nuclear power plants. This course provides a foundation in ethics, which is important for Nuclear Engineers who must consider the ethical implications of their work, such as the safety of their designs or the environmental impact of their projects. The course also covers topics such as codes of conduct, normative ethics, and the ethical cycle, which are all essential for Nuclear Engineers to understand and apply in their work.
Process Engineer
Process Engineers design and operate chemical plants. This course provides a foundation in ethics, which is important for Process Engineers who must consider the ethical implications of their work, such as the safety of their designs or the environmental impact of their projects. The course also covers topics such as codes of conduct, normative ethics, and the ethical cycle, which are all essential for Process Engineers to understand and apply in their work.
Construction Manager
Construction Managers oversee the planning, construction, and completion of construction projects. This course provides a foundation in ethics, which is important for Construction Managers who must consider the ethical implications of their work, such as the safety of their workers or the environmental impact of their projects. The course also covers topics such as codes of conduct, normative ethics, and the ethical cycle, which are all essential for Construction Managers to understand and apply in their work.
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineers design, develop, and test mechanical systems, such as engines, machines, and robots. This course provides a foundation in ethics, which is important for Mechanical Engineers who must consider the ethical implications of their work, such as the safety of their designs or the environmental impact of their projects. The course also covers topics such as codes of conduct, normative ethics, and the ethical cycle, which are all essential for Mechanical Engineers to understand and apply in their work.
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineers design and build infrastructure projects, such as roads, bridges, and buildings. This course provides a foundation in ethics, which is important for Civil Engineers who must consider the ethical implications of their work, such as the safety of their designs or the environmental impact of their projects. The course also covers topics such as codes of conduct, normative ethics, and the ethical cycle, which are all essential for Civil Engineers to understand and apply in their work.
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineers design, develop, and test electrical systems, such as power systems, control systems, and communication systems. This course provides a foundation in ethics, which is important for Electrical Engineers who must consider the ethical implications of their work, such as the safety of their designs or the environmental impact of their projects. The course also covers topics such as codes of conduct, normative ethics, and the ethical cycle, which are all essential for Electrical Engineers to understand and apply in their work.
Systems Engineer
Systems Engineers design and develop complex systems, such as aircraft, satellites, and computer networks. This course provides a foundation in ethics, which is important for Systems Engineers who must consider the ethical implications of their work, such as the safety of their designs or the environmental impact of their projects. The course also covers topics such as codes of conduct, normative ethics, and the ethical cycle, which are all essential for Systems Engineers to understand and apply in their work.
Materials Engineer
Materials Engineers design and develop new materials, such as metals, ceramics, and polymers. This course may be useful for Materials Engineers who want to learn more about the ethical implications of their work, such as the environmental impact of their materials or the safety of their products. The course covers topics such as codes of conduct, normative ethics, and the ethical cycle, which can help Materials Engineers make more informed decisions about their work.
Industrial Engineer
Industrial Engineers design and improve production systems, such as manufacturing processes, supply chains, and logistics systems. This course may be useful for Industrial Engineers who want to learn more about the ethical implications of their work, such as the environmental impact of their designs or the safety of their workers. The course covers topics such as codes of conduct, normative ethics, and the ethical cycle, which can help Industrial Engineers make more informed decisions about their work.
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and test software systems. This course may be useful for Software Engineers who want to learn more about the ethical implications of their work, such as the privacy concerns associated with data collection or the safety of their software. The course covers topics such as codes of conduct, normative ethics, and the ethical cycle, which can help Software Engineers make more informed decisions about their work.
Petroleum Engineer
Petroleum Engineers design and operate oil and gas wells. This course may be useful for Petroleum Engineers who want to learn more about the ethical implications of their work, such as the environmental impact of their projects or the safety of their workers. The course covers topics such as codes of conduct, normative ethics, and the ethical cycle, which can help Petroleum Engineers make more informed decisions about their work.
Product Designer
Product Designers design and develop new products, such as consumer electronics, furniture, and clothing. This course may be useful for Product Designers who want to learn more about the ethical implications of their work, such as the environmental impact of their designs or the safety of their products. The course covers topics such as codes of conduct, normative ethics, and the ethical cycle, which can help Product Designers make more informed decisions about their work.
Computer Hardware Engineer
Computer Hardware Engineers design, develop, and test computer hardware, such as processors, memory, and storage devices. This course may be useful for Computer Hardware Engineers who want to learn more about the ethical implications of their work, such as the privacy concerns associated with data collection or the environmental impact of electronic waste. The course covers topics such as codes of conduct, normative ethics, and the ethical cycle, which can help Computer Hardware Engineers make more informed decisions about their work.

Reading list

We've selected 11 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Ethics, Technology and Engineering .
Delivers a comprehensive look at the field of ethics and technology. The text, which is written in English, provides readers with a deep understanding of the ethical issues posed by technological advancements.
This comprehensive handbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of engineering ethics. It covers a wide range of topics written by leading scholars in the field.
An in-depth exploration of engineering ethics, this text delves into concepts such as responsibility, risk, and sustainability. The authors provide real-world case studies to illustrate these concepts, making this book an invaluable resource.
Offers a philosophical exploration of the ethical responsibilities of engineers. McGinn's insightful analysis valuable resource for understanding the moral dimensions of engineering practice.
Explores ethical issues related to nanotechnology, covering topics such as environmental risks, human health concerns, and social justice. It provides an in-depth analysis of the ethical implications of this emerging technology.
This practical guide provides engineers with a step-by-step approach to addressing ethical issues in their work. It covers topics such as risk assessment, decision-making, and communication.
Advocates for a responsible approach to innovation, emphasizing the importance of ethical considerations in the development and deployment of new technologies.
Discusses ethical issues in the information age, covering topics such as privacy, intellectual property, and the digital divide. It provides a valuable perspective on the ethical challenges posed by new technologies.
Provides an overview of ethical issues faced by engineers, with a particular focus on professional ethics. It covers topics such as codes of conduct, whistleblowing, and corporate responsibility.
Provides guidance on ethical decision-making for engineers, with a focus on the use of codes of ethics. It offers practical advice on identifying and resolving ethical dilemmas.
Examines the relationship between technology and human well-being. Mitcham argues that technology can be a source of both good and harm, and he explores the ethical implications of this duality.

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