The Engineering Virtues

We have a tendency to over-teach ethics - long codified lists of what not to do when.  We try and teach ethics as a skill.  Rarely do we teach the idea of virtue in terms of a fundamental moral dimension.

This is my list of engineering virtues we need to focus more on:

1. Love of Truth - Engineering without the love of truth is a dangerous business.  Getting to the bottom of things in engineering is hard work.  Many times the profession appears that there is no bottom of things.
2. Honesty - Honestly starts with facing your limits as an engineer.  We need to own up to our mistakes and accept unpleasant truths.
3. Fair-Mindedness - We need to be fair when evaluating the arguments of others.  We need to be more judge than jury.
4. Humility - Learn to seek help and guidance.  Own your limitations.
5. Perseverance - Engineering is like many things in life.  Little is worth knowing or doing that comes easily.  Grit is key to most endeavors in engineering.
6. Courage - Stand up for what you believe is true.  Take risks to pursue the right path.
7. Good Listening - You cannot learn from others if all you do is talk.  It takes courage to be a good listener.
8. Perspective-Taking and Empathy - Good decisions require both a firm understanding of context and a firmer understanding of the problems of others.  Engineering requires shared decision making between you and the customer/client.
9. Wisdom - Engineering is a practical profession that requires practical wisdom.  Engineering wisdom is about finding the correct balance.  When things are in conflict, it is the master virtue that takes us down the correct path.