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

Parent Collection
Professional Ethics in Engineering Practice: Discussion Cases Based on NSPE BER Cases
Authoring Institution
National Society of Professional Engineers (NSPE)
Publisher
Online Ethics Center
Year
1999
Rights
Use of Materials on the OEC
Discipline(s)
Engineering
International Perspectives
Topics
Bribery and Extortion
Cultural Awareness and Sensitivity
Workplace Ethics
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.