Social Change in Science and Engineering

Abstract

Scientists and technologists are in the midst of an enormous social experiment, involving the growth of many new skill groups and the undertaking of very large and complex R and D projects. The boundaries of the engineering profession and a philosophy of organizing complex projects are discussed. Some effects on engineering education are traced. Differences between engineers and scientists are examined in the context of the ``research and development explosion.'' Traditional functional differences are being erased, but some differences in personal and social characteristics are described.