> Engineers have, in many ways, built the modern world and helped improve the lives of many. Of this, we are rightfully proud. What's more, only a very small minority of engineers is in the business of making weapons or privacy-invading algorithms.
Morality is relative - by defining what is and isn't moral the article loses the opportunity to make a bigger, more inclusive point. While some people may think spying is wrong, others, like the Economist (http://www.economist.com/news/leaders/21588861-america-will-...) have argued that it's not a bad thing. Similarly, building weapons isn't bad (per se); as the ancient adage goes: "if you want peace, prepare for war".
My point isn't to start an off-topic debate, it's to point out that morality is complex and subjective, and it's up to the individual to make their own decisions. Personally I would never work for the NSA or a defense contractor, but I understand why some people do. I think building a strong moral code is very important, and it's a bad idea to let other people do it for you.
Morality is relative - by defining what is and isn't moral the article loses the opportunity to make a bigger, more inclusive point. While some people may think spying is wrong, others, like the Economist (http://www.economist.com/news/leaders/21588861-america-will-...) have argued that it's not a bad thing. Similarly, building weapons isn't bad (per se); as the ancient adage goes: "if you want peace, prepare for war".
My point isn't to start an off-topic debate, it's to point out that morality is complex and subjective, and it's up to the individual to make their own decisions. Personally I would never work for the NSA or a defense contractor, but I understand why some people do. I think building a strong moral code is very important, and it's a bad idea to let other people do it for you.