Modern society faces two problems: the development of acceptable methods for the introduction of new and powerful tools and the need for a trustworthy, universally applicable ethical system. Part of the problem may be attributed to the lack of a reliable system of ethics that can be brought to bear on the issues of new biotechnology, information technology, and chemical industry. Ethics, Tools, and the Engineer describes and defines the role of the engineer and tools in society. This book gets to the heart of the ethical issues that pertain to living in a rapidly changing world where most changes result from the activity of engineers. It describes what a tool is, the benefits or dangers involved in using tools, and how they are used by engineers today. It also includes laws and guidelines and how our society is dealing with these issues. From the earliest rudimentary tools to today’s cutting edge applications, Ethics, Tools, and the Engineer explores the principles, ethics, and regulat… More >>

Ethics, Tools and the Engineer

A million people hear John H. Lienhard’s radio program “The Engines of Our Ingenuity.” In this fascinating book, Lienhard has gathered together his reflections on the nature of technology, culture, human inventiveness, and the history of engineering. The book brims with insightful observations, offering an intriguing glimpse into technology. Lienhard writes that the history of technology is a history of us–we are the machines we create. Indeed, our very first technology, farming, which demanded year-long care, dramatically changed the rhythms of human life and the course of our history. Lienhard’s stories show that war does not often fuel invention–radar, jets, and the digital computer all emerged before World War II began and–that the medieval Church was actually a driving force behind the growth of Western technology: Cistercian monasteries were virtual factories, putting water wheels to work in wood-cutting, forging, and olive crushing. Lienhard ranges far and wide with stories o… More >>

The Engines of Our Ingenuity: An Engineer Looks at Technology and Culture

If you are looking for a lively, down-to-earth experience in the journey to innovative engineering management, this is definitely the book for you. The author’s 20-plus year perspective indicates that, while most engineers will spend the majority of their careers as managers, most are dissatisfied with the transition. Much of this frustration is the result of lack of preparation and training. This book gives you a solid grounding in the critical attitudes and principles needed for success. The book teaches you how to internalize the attitudes and master the associated skills needed to excel in, and be satisfied with your transition to management. Learn how to communicate more effectively and improve relationships with your colleagues. Realize an improved use of your time, resulting primarily from learning and practicing a number of “soft” skills which flow from developing the necessary attitudes for management. Use your newly acquired skills to solve immediate problems. Then, a… More >>

From Engineer to Manager Mastering the Transition