Lecture 12: Ethics

Question 1

difference between morality and ethics

Answer 1

morality: behavior pattern based on assumptions of right and wrong
ethics: theoretical and systematic methods for describing and treating moral problems

Question 2

Some moral problems described by Norseth 1994

Answer 2

• is it ok that some people get higher risk?
• what is acceptable risk?
• acceptable to whom? who decides?
• when can we regard scientific assumptions as fact, given our duty to warn?
• how should this warning be communicated?

Question 3

the ethical model: norseths’s thoughts

Answer 3

scientific conclusions must not be influenced by outcomes, only by fact

discussions about exposure limits often come down to differences in ethics

legal action is not way out,

Question 4

6 Canons of Ethics for Industrial Hygienists

Answer 4

Follow recognized scientific principles (people’s lives depend on it)
Counsel affected parties
Maintain confidentiality
Avoid conflict of Interest
Perform only in areas of competence
Act responsibly, maintain integrity of profession (what about whistleblowing)?