Appeal to Engineers and Scientists (1995)

APPEAL Science and technology influence the social, economic and political development of civilization throughout the world. In many ways science and technology have made our life easier, richer and safer. However, science and technology can be used for destructive purposes and are key factors in the current growth economy that is threatening the viability of the biosphere and of human societies.

In its origins, science is a search for truth about our world. Its results can be used for good and misused for evil. Technological consequences are now so powerful and interconnected, so sweeping in unforeseen results, that they endanger basic requirements for sustaining life on earth. Without adherence to generally accepted ethical standards, science and technology can damage the future of society and life itself.

The greatest challenge...