Title

Does Human Factors/Ergonomics Contribute To The Quality Of Life?

Keywords

Human factors/ergonomics; Moral imperatives; Political aspirations; Quality of life

Abstract

Our study explores the moral bases of human factors/ergonomics (HF/E). Since their inception, these co-evolving facets of the human enterprise have espoused a dedication to the quality of life. We examine whether this principle has been adhered to or transgressed during the history of, the current instantiation of and the future of HF/E. Such deliberations depend upon whether human beings are viewed as the means of production in a capitalist system or as the fundamental ends of that society. This is a political decision that those in HF/E have to partake in as individuals and as professional groups. Such a decision cannot be neglected since: 'The hottest place in Hell is reserved for those who remain neutral in times of great moral conflict'. Now is a time of great moral conflict and it is upon the outcome of such decisions that the value of HF/E must and will be judged.© 2011 Taylor & Francis.

Publication Date

9-1-2011

Publication Title

Theoretical Issues in Ergonomics Science

Volume

12

Issue

5

Number of Pages

416-426

Document Type

Article

Personal Identifier

scopus

DOI Link

https://doi.org/10.1080/1464536X.2011.559293

Socpus ID

79960665366 (Scopus)

Source API URL

https://api.elsevier.com/content/abstract/scopus_id/79960665366

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