Most unethical things are also illegal. I think the ethical code is reinforcing the idea of personal responsibility. If you're an engineer and you're asked to b

Most unethical things are also illegal. I think the ethical code is reinforcing the idea of personal responsibility. If you're an engineer and you're asked to build a bridge and cut corners that's unethical behavior, and it's illegal and you will actually be punished in the event the bridge collapses. Being an ethical engineer in this context is pointing out the bridge is not designed properly and might collapse, refusing to sign that plan, and making a complaint with the right authorities. Bribery or other similar conducts are also illegal and unethical. I guess there may be some gray areas that are not illegal but are unethical by some morals. I guess an example might be a gambling company or a tobacco company. Tricky.