Case Study Analysis
1. Specify a title for the study
Aberdeen Three
2. State the details of the study
The chemical weapons were developed in the Aberdeen Proving Ground in Maryland is a
U.S. Army facility. The Aberdeen Three case talked about three chemical engineers who
developed weapons. In 1989, the three engineers were indicted for a criminal felony, tried and
convicted of illegally handling, storing, and disposing of hazardous wastes in violation of the
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA). The violations occurred between 1983 and
1986. They each faced up to 15 years in prison and up to $750,000 in fines, but were sentenced
only to three years’ probation and 1000 hours of community service.
3. Define the ethical issues involved in the study
These three engineers didn’t follow their duty to protect the environment and human
health. In engineering ethical issues, engineers should put public health first and environment
protection also very important. The engineers shouldn’t only be loyal for their company; they
should put their duty first.
4. Determine the consequences of the unethical decisions made
Degree (from inconvenience to catastrophic loss of life)
I think this case was a catastrophic. Because of the chemical waste, the environment had
a bad influence, for example, the river and the land might cause disease. Also because of the
chemical waste, human health became a problem. As we all know, chemical waste is bad for
human health.
Scope (what was affected)
First, these three engineers were affected and were put in jail. Then, their company
affected; they didn’t follow their duty. Next, American army also affected. This happened
because the produce of their weapon. Finally, the environment and public health affected.
Time response (immediate or delayed effects)
I think this case caused delayed effects. The environment change, human disease which
caused by chemical waste would have a later influence. These effects would not show up
immediately.
5. Analyze the investigation and the resolution of the issues
Was there a cover-up or openness?
I guess it was a openness. The government and federal court all investigated this case
and made the resolution together.
Was the damage rectified and repaired?
I don’t think the damage rectified or repaired. The chemical engineers just put chemical
waste in a room which called experimental plant; they even put that in the river. The three
engineers didn’t think they were worry, as a result, the damage didn’t change.
Was there a restructuring to prevent future occurrences?
This case didn’t talk about future. But I think the environment protect law will make a
effect in the future.
6. Sources of information
http://ethics.tamu.edu/Portals/3/Case%20Studies/Aberdeen.pdf