Asee peer logo

Ethical Case Study on Startup Culture

Download Paper |

Conference

ASEE North East Section

Location

Fairfield, Connecticut

Publication Date

April 19, 2024

Start Date

April 19, 2024

End Date

April 20, 2024

Page Count

7

DOI

10.18260/1-2--45766

Permanent URL

https://peer.asee.org/45766

Download Count

22

Request a correction

Paper Authors

author page

Susan Freudzon Fairfield University

Download Paper |

Abstract

A high-quality education in ethics is critical for the development of future engineers. It is essential that students learn the Engineering Code of Ethics and learn to apply these codes effectively to a range of workplace scenarios. Engineers have the ability to impact human lives in a positive way. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that negligence on the part of engineers can lead to catastrophic consequences. The Engineering Code of Ethics offers guidelines and a framework for ethical conduct and teaches engineers to adhere to the highest professional standards. Adhering to this code is not solely a matter of professional responsibility, it is a commitment to the well-being of society. Ethical case studies serve as a valuable tool, offering students exposure to real-world situations and providing them with an opportunity to carefully consider the associated risks and challenges. Case studies provide a platform for students to navigate the complexities of decision-making. As students prepare to begin their future careers, some will choose to work in large, established companies, while others may choose to work for new startups. With high financial pressure to produce a product and secure funding, many ethical dilemmas can arise at both small and large companies. It is important to familiarize students with ethical scenarios to raise awareness and prepare them for real-world challenges. This paper explores a particular case study focusing on startup culture, serving as an example for ethics education. Through this examination of ethical mishaps at a particular biomedical company, insight into the complexities of the situation can spark in-depth conversation and help develop strategies for handling ethical challenges.

Freudzon, S. (2024, April), Ethical Case Study on Startup Culture Paper presented at ASEE North East Section, Fairfield, Connecticut. 10.18260/1-2--45766

ASEE holds the copyright on this document. It may be read by the public free of charge. Authors may archive their work on personal websites or in institutional repositories with the following citation: © 2024 American Society for Engineering Education. Other scholars may excerpt or quote from these materials with the same citation. When excerpting or quoting from Conference Proceedings, authors should, in addition to noting the ASEE copyright, list all the original authors and their institutions and name the host city of the conference. - Last updated April 1, 2015