We argue here that the introduction of an ethical code of conduct that follows the example of the Hippocratic Oath of physicians will help geologists to acquire binding awareness of their professional and social responsibilities. The ethical behavior and obligations of modern geologists involve, but are not limited to, the following issues: correct land/environment use and management; respect of truth and science; and protection of the Earth systems, on both the local and global scales, and therefore, of our well-being. We believe that for geoligists, the explicit acceptance of an ethical code will help to promote: (i) an awareness of their social role, expertise and sense of belonging to a professional community; (ii) an understanding of the expectations of citizens and society; and (iii) cultural growth, with better use of research and implementation of scientific and professional skills. All this should enhance the public recognition of the social mission of geologists, which is essential for the well-being of society. Therefore, we suggest that like in the majority of medical schools, ethical training should be a part of the university curriculum for students in geology.

A Hippocratic Oath for geologists? / R. Matteucci, G. Gosso, S. Peppoloni, S. Piacente, J. Wasowski. - In: ANNALS OF GEOPHYSICS. - ISSN 1593-5213. - 55:3(2012), pp. 365-369. [10.4401/ag-5650]

A Hippocratic Oath for geologists?

G. Gosso
Secondo
;
2012

Abstract

We argue here that the introduction of an ethical code of conduct that follows the example of the Hippocratic Oath of physicians will help geologists to acquire binding awareness of their professional and social responsibilities. The ethical behavior and obligations of modern geologists involve, but are not limited to, the following issues: correct land/environment use and management; respect of truth and science; and protection of the Earth systems, on both the local and global scales, and therefore, of our well-being. We believe that for geoligists, the explicit acceptance of an ethical code will help to promote: (i) an awareness of their social role, expertise and sense of belonging to a professional community; (ii) an understanding of the expectations of citizens and society; and (iii) cultural growth, with better use of research and implementation of scientific and professional skills. All this should enhance the public recognition of the social mission of geologists, which is essential for the well-being of society. Therefore, we suggest that like in the majority of medical schools, ethical training should be a part of the university curriculum for students in geology.
Settore GEO/01 - Paleontologia e Paleoecologia
Settore GEO/03 - Geologia Strutturale
Settore GEO/05 - Geologia Applicata
2012
Article (author)
File in questo prodotto:
Non ci sono file associati a questo prodotto.
Pubblicazioni consigliate

I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.

Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/2434/223914
Citazioni
  • ???jsp.display-item.citation.pmc??? ND
  • Scopus 18
  • ???jsp.display-item.citation.isi??? 17
social impact