Becoming a Human Engineer: A Philosophical Inquiry into Engineering Education as Means or Ends

The book "Becoming a Human Engineer" explores the moral and ethical challenges of educating engineers through the philosophical lens of personalism, emphasizing the importance of human growth and development in engineering education. It identifies promising areas of future work by pulling together disparate topics and promoting a holistic development of engineers as persons, focusing on the development of specific knowledges and the habits of mind necessary for adaptation to a changing world.

Format: Hardback
Length: 166 pages
Publication date: 03 February 2022
Publisher: Ethics International Press Ltd

Despite the immense importance of engineering and technology in various aspects of our lives, there is a lack of widespread discussion regarding what it truly means to develop as an engineer and how this transformation can occur. To address this gap, Becoming a Human Engineer delves into the ethical and philosophical challenges of engineering education through the lens of personalism, a philosophical approach that prioritizes the individual and views human growth and development as the cornerstone of a good life.

Building upon the philosophy of the 20th-century philosopher John Macmurray, this book explores the intricate relationship between ethics and education, highlighting the cyclical nature of action and reflection. By bringing together diverse topics within engineering education, the book identifies promising areas for future research and innovation.

However, it is crucial to recognize that engineering methods and ways of reflection can sometimes overshadow the development of individuals. Therefore, a balanced approach is necessary to ensure that the focus on specific knowledge complements rather than detracts from the cultivation of the habits of mind required for engineers to adapt to a constantly evolving world.

One of the critical aspects of becoming a human engineer is providing meaningful experiences that allow engineers to reflect on their experiences holistically. This involves creating opportunities for engineers to engage in hands-on projects, collaborate with others, and confront real-world problems. By explicitly emphasizing the development of multiple ways to reflect on these experiences, engineers can gain a deeper understanding of themselves, their work, and the impact they have on society.

In conclusion, engineering education must prioritize the holistic development of engineers as individuals. By embracing personalism as a philosophical framework, engineering programs can foster the growth of ethical and reflective practitioners who are capable of making a positive impact on society. Through meaningful experiences, explicit reflection, and a focus on developing the habits of mind necessary for adaptation, engineering education can help engineers become the change agents they aspire to be.

Weight: 406g
Dimension: 162 x 242 x 17 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781871891751