Engineering Ethics Problems in a Developing Country - Ethical Engineering for International Development and Environmental Sustainability - page 266

The literature on technology transfer, including its ethical aspects and good prac-
tice, for instance (Roberts 2000 ; Souder et al. 1990 ; Thrupp 1989 ; Wanderson
2003 ), shows that an ethical technology transfer process is possible. Unfortunately,
as indicated by the Polish example, it frequently does not occur. The discussion also
shows that it is feasible for technical experts to remain independent of large corpo-
rations and other exploitative systems and to carry out high-quality technical work.
However, in such circumstances it can be important for these experts to be moti-
vated by the work itself rather than any possible resulting rewards.
This chapter draws on work carried out within the framework of the International
Federation of Automatic Control (IFAC) Supplemental Ways for Improving
International Stability (SWIIS) Technical Committee (now TECIS 9.5). It brings
together presentations given at SWIIS, IFAC and IFIP conferences (Izworski et al.
2001 ; Lewoc 2005 ; Lewoc et al. 2008a , 2009 ). The first work was presented at an
SWIIS event in Vienna in 2001 and therefore too late to affect the experiences of the
ICT and automation pioneers. The intention was rather to draw attention to the
dangers associated with unethical technology transfer and change processes.
However, SWIIS and subsequently TECIS 9.5 also work towards bringing about
change in the way technology is applied to ensure it benefits both humanity and the
environment and improves international stability. This gives rise to the question of
the potential role of TECIS 9.5 in ensuring ethnical technology transfer processes
which benefit the people of the country the technology is transferred to rather than
just large corporations.
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