Philosophy Engineering Ethics- Case Analysis

Engineering Ethics and Professionalism : Fall 2019

Second BER Case Analysis

Defend a conclusion about what Engineer A should do in a BER case of your choosing (except BER 07-6) by constructing an argument, considering an objection, and giving a reply to that objection.

1. Construct an ethical syllogism for the impermissibility of Engineer A not doing X.

2. Conclude that therefore Engineer A ought to do X.

3. Consider an objection in the form of a counter-argument for the impermissibility of Engineer A doing X.

4. Counter the objection by rejecting one of the basic premises of the counter-argument.

5. Write this up using the following format:

Case: ______________ NAME:__________________

https://www.nspe.org/resources/ethics/ethics-resources/board-ethical-review-cases/public-welfare-bridge-structure

I. Facts

1. (Purely descriptive claims—no value judgments)…

2.

3. .... (may have to make some assumptions)

II. Argument

P1: Engineer A not doing X will involve F.

P2: All F-acts are impermissible.

2a: F-acts are of type T

2b: All acts of type T are impermissible. (NSPE Canon(look at the last page down))

C: So Engineer A not doing X is impermissible.

III. Judgment

So, Engineer A ought to do X.

IV. Objection (Counter Argument)

P1: Engineer A doing X will involve F.

P2: All F-acts are impermissible.

2a: F-acts are of type T

2b: All acts of type T are impermissible. (NSPE Canon)

C: So Engineer A doing X is impermissible.

V. Reply

1. Deny either P1 or 2a (because 2b is a code principle, we do not want to reject it)

2. Explain…

NSPE Code of Ethics References my case that I want you to relate in ur writing

II.1.

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

II.1.a.

If engineers' judgment is overruled under circumstances that endanger life or property, they shall notify their employer or client and such other authority as may be appropriate.

Subject Reference: 

Duty to the Public

II.1.e.

Engineers shall not aid or abet the unlawful practice of engineering by a person or firm.

Subject Reference: 

Unethical Practice by Others

III.8.a.

Engineers shall conform with state registration laws in the practice of engineering.

Subject Reference: 

Licensure Laws