HUM-3157
Professional Ethics and Environmental Protection
Lecture 7: IEEE Codes of Ethics
Topics Covered:
• IEEE Code of Ethics.
• Role of IEEE in promoting ethical practices in engineering.
Learning Outcomes:
• Learn about IEEE’s ethical standards for engineers.
• Analyze real-life cases of IEEE ethical dilemmas.
IEEE Codes of Ethics
What is the IEEE Codes of Ethics?
• A set of guidelines that outline the ethical responsibilities of engineers
and technologists.
• Applicable to all IEEE members and practitioners in engineering fields.
Key Principles of the IEEE Codes of Ethics:
1. Public Interest:
a. Hold paramount the safety, health, and welfare of the public.
b. Example: Ensuring software does not harm users or violate
privacy.
2. Honesty and Integrity:
a. Be honest and realistic in stating claims or estimates.
b. Example: Avoiding exaggerated claims about AI capabilities.
3. Fairness and Non-Discrimination:
a. Treat all persons fairly and avoid discrimination.
b. Example: Designing inclusive technologies that serve diverse
populations.
4. Avoiding Harm:
a. Minimize potential harm to the environment, society, and
individuals.
b. Example: Addressing biases in machine learning algorithms.
5. Continuous Learning:
a. Improve technical competence and undertake tasks only when
qualified.
b. Example: Staying updated on cybersecurity best practices.
6. Respect for Intellectual Property:
a. Respect patents, copyrights, and other forms of intellectual
property.
b. Example: Avoiding plagiarism in research and development.
7. Confidentiality:
a. Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
b. Example: Protecting user data in software applications.
Role of IEEE in Promoting Ethical Practices
Educational Initiatives:
• IEEE offers workshops, webinars, and courses on ethics in
engineering.
• Example: IEEE Ethics Education Committee promotes ethics
education globally.
Ethics Resources and Guidelines:
• IEEE provides resources like the "IEEE Ethics and Member Conduct
Committee" to address ethical concerns.
• Example: Guidelines for ethical AI development.
Technical Standards with Ethical Considerations:
• IEEE standards often include ethical considerations (e.g., IEEE P7000
series on ethical AI).
• Example: IEEE P7001 focuses on transparency in autonomous
systems.
Advocacy and Policy Development:
• IEEE engages with policymakers to promote ethical practices in
technology.
• Example: Advocating for regulations on data privacy and AI ethics.
Community Building:
• IEEE fosters a global community of professionals committed to ethical
practices.
• Example: IEEE Societies and Technical Councils addressing ethical
challenges in specific domains.
Recap of Key Takeaways:
• The IEEE Codes of Ethics provides a framework for ethical decision-
making in engineering.
• IEEE plays a vital role in promoting ethical practices through
education, standards, and advocacy.
• As future engineers, you have a responsibility to uphold ethical
standards in your work.
Students are encouraged to join IEEE and participate in its
ethics initiatives.
