Relative importance of the various functions of codes of ethics

The perspective of engg as social experimentation clearly emphasizes the primary role

‘supportive function’ of the codes of ethics.  This is so because, only this support enables engineers, speak out clearly and openly their views, to those affected by engg projects.

The, ‘inspiration and guidance’ and ‘educative’ functions are  also important in promoting mutual understanding and in motivating engineers to act with higher moral standards.

The ‘disciplinary’ function in engg codes is of secondary  importance. Those  with unethical conduct when exposed are subject to law. Developing elaborate paralegal procedures within professional societies duplicates a function which can be  done better by legal system. At best, codes should try to discipline engineers in areas which are not covered by law.

The worst abuse of codes has been to restrict honest moral effort in the name of

‘preserving profession’s public mage’ and ‘protecting status quo’. The best way to increase trust is by encouraging and aiding engineers to speak freely and responsibly about public safety.