In Search of a Philosophy of Engineering

The authors argue that a satisfactory philosophy of engineering is important for the future development of the engineering profession in Australia. It would provide a basis for developing curricula, management of change and technology policy formulation. Such a philosophy would be quite different from a philosophy of science. The authors discuss the differences between science, engineering science, technology and engineering, and their roles in the process of innovation. The heuristic approach is seen as the basic methodology of engineering design, the central engineering activity. Clearer understanding of these matters has the potential for improving community understanding of the contributions the engineering profession has to make to advancing technology.