Abstract: The practice of software as an engineering profession has not always held the same weight as other engineering professions: civil, mechanical, electrical. The professional responsibility to the greater public good is much more obvious when life-and-limb are on the line. Aside from specific domains where life and limb DO matter to software (aerospace & medical), the connection between software engineering professionalism and societal responsibility has up until now been vague.
That's changing. In the modern world, Software controls everything we do and the decisions we make can have serious implications on the public interest.
Sean and Chris will bring their background as engineers and their participation in the "Ritual of the Calling of an Engineer" to bring to light the important role engineers have in safeguarding the public. In this interactive session, the speakers will explore several case studies to highlight prominent situations where engineering decisions were overruled by management with disastrous consequences, and they will look at some newer ethical concerns that are unique to the software profession.
Learning Outcomes: - Gain a new perspective on the role of a software developer in society.
- When does the public interest come before personal financial interests?
- When does your technical expertise leave you especially qualified to consider the public interest?
- How do you handle a situation where the public's interests are in conflict with those of your employer?
