Create articles from any YouTube video or use our API to get YouTube transcriptions
Start for freeThe Ethical Cycle in Engineering Decision-Making
In the realm of engineering, ethical decision-making is not just about adhering to codes of conduct; it's about deeply understanding the moral implications of our actions. This is where the ethical cycle, a structured approach to ethical decision-making, becomes invaluable. The cycle consists of identifying a moral problem, analyzing it, exploring options for action, making a judgment, and reflecting on the decision made.
Identifying the Moral Problem
Every ethical dilemma starts with a situation that requires action. The key is to distinguish between the physical problem in front of us and the moral problem. For instance, deciding whether to certify a software system isn't just a technical decision; it's a moral one when the system has a known defect that could potentially put lives at risk.
Analyzing the Problem
Analyzing the problem involves understanding who the stakeholders are, what morally relevant facts exist, and what uncertain or missing information needs to be addressed. This step is critical in determining what's at stake and who cares about the outcome.
Exploring Options for Action
Being creative in identifying options for action is crucial. Beyond the binary choice of doing or not doing something, there are often middle-ground solutions. For example, in a case where a software system has a defect, options might include certifying the system with caveats, not certifying it, or finding a partial solution.
Making a Judgment
Judgment involves consulting various advisors, both internal (intuition and common sense) and external (ethical theories, codes of conduct). For instance, utilitarianism might suggest certifying the system if no harm is likely, while Kantian ethics would emphasize the importance of honesty, regardless of the consequences.
Reflecting on the Decision
Reflection is about critically assessing the decision made in light of the ethical theories and frameworks considered. It's about asking whether the chosen action is defensible and repeatable, and if it aligns with one's moral sensibilities.
A Real-World Application: The Occidental Engineering Case Study
The Occidental Engineering case study, derived from the Markkula Center for Applied Ethics, serves as a perfect example. Wayne Davidson, a software engineer, faces a dilemma: certify a software system with a known defect or risk jeopardizing the project and potentially thousands of jobs. Through the lens of the ethical cycle, we explore the moral problem, analyze the stakeholders and missing information, consider various actions, and ultimately make a judgment that balances professional responsibilities with moral integrity.
In navigating this dilemma, the importance of creative problem-solving and ethical judgment becomes clear. Whether it's the potential for lost jobs or the risk to public safety, the dimensions of the problem are complex. Yet, by systematically applying the ethical cycle, engineers can navigate these murky waters, making decisions that are not only technically sound but also morally defensible.
The Occidental Engineering case illustrates the critical role of ethics in engineering. It's a reminder that behind every technical decision, there's a web of moral implications that requires careful consideration. By adopting a structured approach to ethical decision-making, engineers can uphold their professional duties while staying true to their moral compass.
For a deeper dive into the Occidental Engineering case study and the ethical cycle, visit the original video here.
