Engineering a Safer World: Lessons from History
Wicked Problems: How to Engineer a Better World authored by Guru Madhavan, delves into the challenges engineers face when introducing new technologies to society. In the past, many technologies were implemented without fully understanding the potential risks or considering consumer behaviors. This rush led to disasters such as steamboat explosions, aeroplane crashes, and other preventable tragedies.
In Wicked Problems, Madhavan uses real-life examples to explore the interactions between engineers and policymakers. He highlights how the engineering process can sometimes create problems that policy alone cannot solve, resulting in socially unacceptable risks. By focusing on ‘wicked problems’ that arise when different types of challenges intersect, Madhavan demonstrates how engineering decisions can impact society at large.
Madhavan examines historical events like the Boston Molasses Disaster of 1919 to illustrate the consequences of ignoring warning signs and accepting vulnerabilities. He emphasizes the need for engineers to take on social responsibility and address both the technical and human factors that contribute to disasters. Through the lens of aviation history, Madhavan also discusses the evolution of safety measures in the industry, highlighting the importance of a systems approach to solving complex problems.
Lessons from Aviation History
Aviation provides valuable insights into the challenges of addressing wicked problems. Madhavan discusses how early aviators navigated risks and how safety measures evolved over time. By examining the contributions of innovators like Edwin Link, who developed flight simulators to train pilots, Madhavan emphasizes the importance of combining technical skills with mental discipline to ensure safe operations.
Madhavan’s book serves as a reminder for engineers to consider the broader implications of their work, beyond technical innovation. He calls for a shift in engineering practices towards holistic approaches that address societal, political, and economic factors. By learning from past disasters and advocating for responsible engineering practices, engineers can contribute to building a safer and more sustainable world.