Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
area devoid of streets, curbs, houses, parking lots, and other “amenities.” At an early age our intuition
informed us of the inherent value of this property.
Likewise, intuition comes into play when we think about human enhancement. For example, even if
we agree that the next generation will have to be smarter than this one as the problems and opportunities
become more complex, we intuitively know that we must not manipulate our species in certain ways
to make us smarter. For example, if we are able to increase cranium size
in
utero
(i.e., within the
womb) and this increase is found to make the person smarter, would it be ethical to carry out such
manipulation? Many of us would be opposed to this. Some opposition owes to a historical track record
of similar “advances” being accompanied by unintended consequences later (such as the effects of the
in
utero
-administered drug diethylstilbestrol (DES) in mothers whose daughters later developed cervical
cancer after adolescence). Other opposition is on moral grounds.
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We do not have the moral perspective
or authority to make this decision for the unborn. Some are opposed because of aesthetics. Will the
child's larger head be perceived as unappealing and lead to social challenges?
The subtle intuition is quite interesting from a moral perspective. For one thing, human enhancement
cannot be completely based on utility. As in the case of an increased cranium size, it could be argued
that having a third arm is a benefit. How many times have you been trying to do something that would
have been so much easier if you had another arm? Or if you had eyes behind your head? Both of these
would in fact add utility to numerous tasks. But few of us would opt for either. Why not?
Engineering
Intuition
Engineering problems are under-defined, there are many solutions, good, bad and indifferent. The
art is to arrive at a good solution. This is a creative activity, involving imagination, intuition and
deliberate choice.
Sir Ove Arup (1895-1988), Danish-English Engineer-Architect
It can be argued that engineering is a blend of information, creativity, and ethics.
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The engineer
operates within a range of constraints and opportunity (Figure 3.6). Too far in the direction of risk
means the engineer is not dutifully protecting and ensuring the safety of the client and the pubic
at large. Too far in the direction of caution means the engineer is not taking advantage of the
personal and public investment in education and experience that should have engendered creativity
in solving society's problems. The “sweet spot” in the center of the diagrams is determined by
knowledge, with a hefty dose of intuition.
Engineers are risk managers. Moreover, the discussion also begs the question as to how far
should an engineer push the envelope before becoming unethical. The stakes are very high. For
example, modifying the design of a medical device, such as an implanted defibrillator, could well
increase its efficiency. However, it could also introduce new risks. Unlike paintings, sculpture, and
other arts, the “art” of engineering is a balance of mathematics, physical science, and creativity.
As Sir Ove aptly stated, creativity embodies “imagination, intuition and deliberate choice.” These
attributes set engineers apart from many other professions.
