As a fundamental element in R&D, the engineer has a key role in the implementation of new technologies, however, a significant portion of society will always feel insecure about technological innovations.
These people believe that all technological change implicitly brings some "damage" to society and, consequently, engineers are partly responsible for this "damage".
Therefore, it does not sound unreasonable for them to ask themselves:
How can the engineer help the influence of technology in society be more beneficial?
Having the correct knowledge
The first step is, clearly, to study in depth the new technology, so that it dominates and knows with absolute certainty, for what? To know precisely what is positive and what is supposedly negative about this technology.
He should also know the reasons: Why is that technology positive? What reasons do people have to think that this innovation is harmful to them? Can you get more out of it?
With this information you can do a "Design thinking" to carry out strategies that exploit the maximum of the positive of this technology and minimize the impact –if it is ethical– of the innovation.
Environmental damage
In the case of a technology with a negative charge per se, such as nuclear energy or a new method of extracting oil with risks of contaminating important water wells, we should proceed in a similar way, but always keeping in mind: pollution to a minimum.
The engineer's job will be clear: optimize that process / system so that the risk / gain equation tilts in favor of the second, minimizing the risks and maximizing the benefits. Another key task at this point is to develop efficient systems, how efficient? 100%, that nothing escapes, human beings can not be perfect, the machines we do, yes.
Society must have something clear: the engineer is not guilty of his consumption problems. It is hypocritical on its part to hold the professional accountable for providing a service that society requires.
If you do not like the goods / services that pollute the environment, do not consume them, but do not demand others who live just like you. The engineer works hard so that this environmental impact is the minimum and the business continues to be profitable, it can not work miracles.
I conclude emphasizing something, this work is more of public relations than an engineering job, since it is about society "approving" the new tools. Remember that when talking about "technological changes" today, it is more about things like automation and social networks than about fracking or nuclear technology. And you? How would you answer the question:
How can the engineer help the influence of technology in society be more beneficial?
I wait for you in the comments.
Greetings.
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Author: @JulioCCorderoC
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