Ethics in Engineering Principles

The video discusses the importance of ethics in engineering, highlighting the need for a moral framework to guide engineers in making decisions that prioritize public safety and welfare. It examines case studies like the Kansas City Hyatt-Regency collapse and the Citicorp building incident to illustrate the consequences of ethical lapses. The video also explores ethical theories such as utilitarianism, rights ethics, and duty ethics, and emphasizes the importance of adhering to codes of ethics like the ASCE's. The Space Shuttle Challenger disaster is used to further underscore the critical role of ethics in engineering.

Why is ethics particularly important in the field of engineering?

• Ethics is not relevant to engineering.

• Engineering projects are always successful.

• Engineers' work can directly impact public safety.

• Engineers often work alone.

What was a major cause of the Kansas City Hyatt-Regency Collapse?

• Use of substandard materials.

• Design changes without proper review.

• Natural disaster.

• Sabotage.

According to the ASCE Code of Ethics, what should be an engineer's primary concern?

• Cost efficiency.

• Speed of project completion.

• Public safety and welfare.

• Aesthetics of the design.

Which principle of the ASCE Code of Ethics emphasizes working only in areas of expertise?

• Issue True Statements.

• Treat All Persons Fairly.

• Service With Competence.

• Hold Safety Paramount.

What does utilitarianism focus on in ethical decision-making?

• Maximizing individual benefits.

• Maximizing overall good for the majority.

• Prioritizing personal interests.

• Following strict rules regardless of outcome.

How does rights ethics differ from utilitarianism?

• It prioritizes financial gain.

• It focuses on the majority's benefit.

• It emphasizes respecting individual rights.

• It disregards ethical considerations.

What ethical issue was highlighted by the Citicorp building case?

• Failure to inform the public about potential risks.

• Over-reliance on technology.

• Excessive spending on safety measures.

• Ignoring aesthetic considerations.

What was a key ethical failure in the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster?

• Poor communication with the media.

• Ignoring engineers' safety concerns.

• Overestimation of the project's success.

• Lack of funding for the project.

What is a crucial lesson from engineering failures like the Challenger disaster?

• Avoid using new technologies.

• Public opinion should guide engineering decisions.

• Ethical considerations can prevent disasters.

• Always prioritize project deadlines.

What is the role of ethical codes in engineering?

• To ensure engineers work faster.

• To provide guidelines for ethical decision-making.

• To limit engineers' creativity.

• To increase project costs.