What is the primary goal of engineering ethics?

The primary goal of engineering ethics is to ensure safety, sustainability, and welfare in engineering practices. This focus is grounded in the responsibility that engineers have to protect the health, safety, and well-being of the public and the environment. Engineers are often faced with making decisions that can have far-reaching implications, and ethical practice serves as a guideline for making those decisions in a manner that prioritizes human and environmental welfare. By adhering to ethical principles, engineers are not only upholding professional integrity but are also actively contributing to the broader societal good, ensuring that their work positively impacts the lives of individuals and communities.

While profit maximization, fostering competition, and promoting technological advancements are important aspects of the engineering field, they do not take precedence over the ethical obligations that prioritize safety and sustainability in engineering practices. Without a strong ethical foundation, the other goals could lead to negative outcomes for society and the environment. Therefore, the essence of engineering ethics lies in the commitment to responsible and conscientious practice in all aspects of engineering.