The basic code of ethics in any profession
The basic code of ethics in any profession, not only engineering is to ensure that there is full disclosure and honesty maintained at every step in carrying out the duties of the given profession. The primary reason is to mitigate against any possible harm that may come. In this case, from the facts given it is pretty certain that no harm would be caused to the product. Till the point it is assured that there won't be any harm caused by hiding the fact, it is justified to not tell about the bolt problem. In this case, from the facts of the case it is pretty certain that no harm would be caused to this whole product. Looking at it from a utilitarian perspective, it can be seen that in case things go south after telling them it will be a huge loss in terms of money and labor which will be unfortunate. If one looks at this from the utilitarian perspective along with looking at the fact that no one will suffer from hurt in this situation and it would save the labor of many men, it is okay to keep away the problem at once. Though effective efforts need to be done to be able to cure them. This can be seen through this example that there are two products with exactly the same ingredients and the same quality standard just made in different countries, they also taste the same. In case the labels are removed, to distinguish them wouldn't be possible. This is the exact same thing. The quality is assured, it functions the same way then why does there need to be a difference.
Discuss several possible "creative middle way solutions". (30 points) Which do you think is best and why? (20 points)
The creative middle way solution would be to get started on making the bolts right away for the company. And once the job is finished, then ask the company to send back the machines for a routine checkup and silently replace the bolts. Later when one is confident that the machines are working properly, tell the company about the mishap that happened and apologize. It would possibly be the best solution because it maximizes the gain and minimizes the pain thus following a very utilitarian approach. The next possible thing that can be done is not do anything till the machines require any maintenance and then when they do, change the screws along with performing repairs. I think these are the best alternatives because they would do the wrong right while also saving the skin of so many people who would have suffered in case the consignment got rejected. It is important that the screws are changed because it would mean what was promised was delivered even when it meant delay and concealing of facts. It also needs to be approached very diplomatically because if this is revealed about the screws without replacing them, then the consignment is bound to fail.
Discuss one possible objection to your view and respond to it. (20 points)
One possible objection can arise taking into view the deontological account which talks about the categorical imperative. It basically says that we should not do something unless we agree with everyone in the world doing the same thing. For instance, before jumping a red light, it needs to be taken into account if everyone jumps a red light what will be the state of the world. Similarly in this situation if everyone started replacing screws and being dishonest, what will be the ultimate consequences of that? It will result in people replacing parts and indulging in an unfair and dishonest work environment which wouldn't work out. Ethics is basically doing everything that you would let the other person do. Lying is not justifiable and it shouldn't be justified. Basic ethics also means that there needs to be an honest approach to work.
How is all this related to the ethical theories of Utilitarianism and Respect for Persons (or is it?) (10 points)
The basic tenet of the philosophy of Utilitarianism is gaining maximum happiness and minimum pain for society at large that can be reached by reducing harm. In this also, the aim is to maximize utility. In case the screws are thrown away and the order cannot be delivered on time, it is bound to cause a lot of harm to both the companies and to the individuals working in them. This harm is far greater than the harm that will be inflicted when the other two approaches would be followed. It says that there is respect that you give to people by letting them make a choice. Here making a choice would be to tell the company and give them the choice to accept or reject the goods. In case the goods are rejected, it would impose a significant amount of damage for the organization which would mean that the employees would be affected too.
