2.3.2 - Personal and Professional Ethics

What is a key aspect of personal ethics in engineering?

• Following legal regulations strictly

• Upholding moral principles

• Maximizing profit

• Avoiding all conflicts

Answer explanation

A key aspect of personal ethics in engineering is upholding moral principles, which guide engineers to act responsibly and prioritize the welfare of society over mere compliance with laws or profit maximization.

In the context of engineering ethics, what does the principle "Do What You Say You Will Do" emphasize?

• Innovation

• Flexibility

• Keeping promises

• Cost reduction

Answer explanation

The principle "Do What You Say You Will Do" emphasizes the importance of keeping promises in engineering ethics, ensuring that professionals honor their commitments and maintain trust with clients and colleagues.

Why is confidentiality important in professional relationships for engineers?

• It helps in marketing

• It maintains trust and avoids legal risks

• It increases productivity

• It reduces costs

Answer explanation

Confidentiality is crucial in engineering as it maintains trust between professionals and clients, ensuring sensitive information is protected. This trust helps avoid legal risks associated with breaches of confidentiality.

What is one of the five cornerstones of ethical behavior in engineering?

• Maximizing efficiency

• Never divulging information given in confidence

• Increasing market share

• Reducing production costs

Answer explanation

One of the cornerstones of ethical behavior in engineering is confidentiality. 'Never divulging information given in confidence' ensures trust and integrity in professional relationships, making it the correct choice.

What is a key aspect of ethical behavior in engineering regarding mistakes?

• Ignoring mistakes

• Accepting responsibility for mistakes

• Blaming others for mistakes

• Hiding mistakes

Answer explanation

A key aspect of ethical behavior in engineering is accepting responsibility for mistakes. This fosters accountability, trust, and continuous improvement, which are essential for professional integrity and public safety.

Why is honesty important in the engineering profession?

• It allows engineers to lie effectively

• It enhances the credibility of the profession

• It helps engineers avoid work

• It encourages engineers to make mistakes

Answer explanation

Honesty is crucial in engineering as it enhances the credibility of the profession. Trust in engineers ensures safety, reliability, and ethical standards, which are essential for public welfare and the integrity of engineering solutions.

What should engineers be cautious about in professional settings?

• Accepting gifts that may compromise objectivity

• Working too hard

• Making too many friends

• Taking too many breaks

Answer explanation

Engineers should be cautious about accepting gifts that may compromise objectivity, as this can lead to conflicts of interest and undermine professional integrity. Maintaining impartiality is crucial in engineering decisions.

What is one of the five cornerstones of ethical behavior mentioned in the text?

• Making quick decisions

• Keeping promises

• Avoiding teamwork

• Seeking personal gain

Answer explanation

One of the five cornerstones of ethical behavior is 'keeping promises.' This principle emphasizes the importance of trust and reliability in relationships, making it a fundamental aspect of ethical conduct.

What should engineers consider when making ethical decisions?

• Whether the decision could become a habit

• How to avoid responsibility

• How to impress others

• How to make the most money

Answer explanation

Engineers should consider whether their decisions could become a habit, as this reflects on their ethical standards and long-term impact. The other options focus on self-interest rather than ethical responsibility.

What is a fundamental criterion in ethical decision-making for engineers?

• Safety

• Legality

• Public scrutiny

• Personal comfort

Answer explanation

Legality is a fundamental criterion in ethical decision-making for engineers, as it ensures that their actions comply with laws and regulations, protecting public welfare and maintaining professional integrity.