Code Of Ethics: The American Society Of Mechanical Engineers

Words: 374
Pages: 2

The American Society of Mechanical Engineers (AMSE) has had their code of ethics in place since March 1976. The code provides a general framework of the behaviors that virtuous engineers are to follow. Over the years, the code has been revised numerous times; however, it is not without faults. Multiple phrases are left undefined and subject to interpretation, which can be confusing for the reader. The code of ethics would be superior if it were less ambiguous and more explicit.
Several clauses stand out as “problematic” because of their vague nature. For example, the second fundamental canon states, “Engineers shall perform services only in the areas of their competence.” This rule seems to be rooted in normative ethics. Common sense dictates