Engineering, Technology, and Contemporary Issues

Due: October 31^st 2008, 5:00 p.m.

The role of today’s engineer is complex and multifaceted. Engineers work to solve a number of complex problems, ultimately to address problems of today’s society and to improve our quality of life. As science and technology advance and the horizons of engineering continue to broaden, a number of challenging multidisciplinary issues arise in virtually all areas of society. In today’s world, engineers must therefore not only be proficient in the mathematics, technologies, and science involved in their field, but must remain cognizant of social, cultural, economic, political, ethical, and environmental issues. Engineers must be continually mindful of the societal impact of technology and engineering.

To appreciate the historical context of our society and to acquire a better understanding of the world in which we live, it is imperative that engineering students become knowledgeable in the humanities and social sciences, and in the social, environmental, and ethical implications of engineering in today’s world.

Assignment: Attend a seminar, colloquium, panel discussion, or presentation that addresses social, technological, political, environmental, or ethical issues in today’s world. Examples would be; events that discuss engineering in a societal context, discussions of contemporary issues and current events that include engineering and technology considerations, and discussion of issues that relate to the politically charged topics of ethics, ecology, and the environment.

You can find seminars and colloquia listed in a number of places, including the State News, MSU News Bulletin, the Science at the Edge brochure and at:

http://www.egr.msu.edu/egr/ and http://www.msu.edu

To be turned in: Each student must submit a one or two page, well-written (i.e., proper grammar and punctuation) typed summary of the presentation that includes:

1. Name of the speaker or speakers

2. Type of event (Department research colloquium, community forum, etc.)

3. Host: Department or Organization hosting the event

4. Date and location

5. Title of Presentation

6. Summary. Provide a succinct summary of the presentation, with specific mention of the relationship between the topic discussed and engineering / technology.

7. Your perspective. Provide at least one to two paragraphs on the relationship between the topic addressed and engineering and technology, including a discussion of your thoughts on (for example) the ethical, environmental, political, or societal implications. What are the issues, what are the tradeoffs, what are the consequences, and what are your thoughts?