What does “responsible engineering” mean today? How do new technological developments and social changes affect what is required for technical competence, protecting the public, and satisfying employer and client expectations? What more is implied by the term? I (at least begin to) answer these questions by developing a multidimensional understanding of responsible engineering. Starting from a foundational understanding of engineering practice and professionalism, I explore how the goal of responsible engineering is affected by recent transformations of the sociotechnical systems in which engineers work, and propose principles that can help engineers develop their sense of responsibility and align their practice with it.

Bio

Glen Miller is Instructional Professor in the Department of Philosophy at Texas A&M University. He earned a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering and a doctorate in philosophy. His teaching and research help people to understand and navigate their social, technological, and ecological environments. His current research focuses on engineering ethics, cyberethics, and the ethics of AI. His most recent book is a co-edited volume titled Thinking Through Science and Technology: Philosophy, Religion and Politics in an Engineered World (2023). He also enjoys directing undergraduate research.

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