Unethical practices of engineering

Irresponsible engineers
Corruption in engineering profession
Malpractice of engineers
Negligent engineers
Professional misconduct by engineers
Incompetent engineering services
Illegal activities of engineering consultants
Dangerous applications of engineering
Temptations of engineering practice

Nature

There is scope for unethical practice by engineers in relation to the selection and use of materials in any product or construction. Engineers may be encouraged to choose materials because they are cheaper (or more expensive), irrespective of their adequacy to the task. Engineers inspecting machinery and buildings after construction, may be encouraged to overlook weaknesses, irrespective of the hazard they may constitute to personnel or the environment.

Background

The global significance of unethical practices in engineering emerged prominently in the 20th century, following high-profile disasters such as the 1940 Tacoma Narrows Bridge collapse and the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear accident. These events, widely publicized and scrutinized, highlighted the catastrophic consequences of compromised professional standards. Over time, increased international collaboration and regulatory oversight have deepened awareness of the pervasive risks, prompting ongoing debate and reform within the engineering community worldwide.

Incidence

In a highly competitive construction industry there are frequent cases of buildings collapsing because of use of inappropriate materials. During the Los Angeles earthquake in 1994, questions were raised concerning the failure of certain buildings and sections of highway that were supposed to be earthquake proof. The failure of many oil tankers and cargo vessels has been partly attributed to inappropriate certification whereby unsafe vessels were allowed to continue to operate. Analogous examples have been cited in relation to nuclear reactors where engineers fail to report defects of which they are aware or are accomplices in the concealment of that information, whatever the risks to the surrounding environment or population.

Claim

Unethical practices in engineering are a grave and urgent problem that threaten public safety, trust, and the very foundation of technological progress. When engineers cut corners, falsify data, or ignore ethical standards, lives are put at risk and disasters become inevitable. This blatant disregard for responsibility undermines society’s well-being and progress. Addressing unethical engineering is not optional—it is absolutely essential for a safe, just, and sustainable future.

Counter-claim

The so-called "unethical practices of engineering" are grossly exaggerated and hardly warrant concern. Most engineers adhere to strict codes, and isolated incidents do not reflect the profession as a whole. Focusing on rare ethical lapses distracts from the real progress and innovation engineers bring to society. Worrying about this issue is unnecessary and diverts attention from more pressing global challenges that truly deserve our collective energy and resources.