Hosted by Aryan Shah with guest Branden leong
This podcast explores the role of virtue ethics in engineering, emphasizing how virtues like compassion, integrity, and discernment provide a more effective ethical framework than deontology or consequentialism. The discussion highlights how these virtues align with engineering principles such as objectivity, care, and honesty, while also addressing the balance between technical expertise and moral character. The conversation delves into real-world challenges engineers face, including maintaining ethical decision-making in high-pressure environments and ensuring their work benefits society without unintended harm.
The speakers also examine engineering leadership and societal impact, discussing how engineers play a critical role in shaping technology, public trust, and policy, particularly in fields like AI, biotechnology, and sustainability. Ethical gray areas, such as balancing profitability with public welfare, are explored, along with the importance of virtue-driven innovation in addressing issues like climate change. Through examples and case studies, the podcast underscores the need for engineers to develop virtues that help them navigate the complexities of modern technological advancements responsibly.