Application of Code of Ethics to Non-U.S. Engineers (adapted from NSPE Case No. 98-2)

Description

An engineer and member of international NSPE wonders whether he should engage in a practice which is legally acceptable in his country but against the code of ethics of NSPE.

Body

Arthur is a legally recognized engineer and resident in his home country. He is also an NSPE International Member. Arthur provides consulting and other engineering services to foreign national and local governments. Under the laws of his home country, it is legal for individuals to provide cash payments to public officials in order to obtain project assignments. In fact, doing so constitutes a tax deduction for him.

Arthur wants to provide cash payments to public officials in foreign countries. But he knows that this practice is against NSPE's code of ethics. Should he proceed? Why or why not?

NSPE Code of Ethics An earlier version may have been used in this case.

Notes

See the original NSPE case at: Code of Ethics and Non-US Engineers - Case No. 98-2.

Citation
. . Application of Code of Ethics to Non-U.S. Engineers (adapted from NSPE Case No. 98-2). Online Ethics Center. DOI:. https://onlineethics.org/cases/professional-ethics-engineering-practice-discussion-cases-based-nspe-ber-cases/application.