Why Engineering Should Be a Social Norm: The Value of Basic Engineering Knowledge for Everyone from Nisar Kasai's Idea / Prospect

In today’s technology-driven world, engineering plays a pivotal role in shaping how society functions. From the infrastructure that supports our cities to the devices we use every day, engineering is behind much of what we take for granted. But despite its centrality, engineering is often viewed as a specialized field, relevant only to those pursuing it as a career. However, there is growing recognition that basic engineering knowledge should become a social norm — a skill set that everyone possesses, regardless of their profession.

This article explores why a basic understanding of engineering principles should be a fundamental part of everyday life, offering benefits from problem-solving to innovation in various non-engineering fields.

At its core, engineering is about solving problems efficiently. It involves breaking down complex issues into manageable parts and finding practical, often innovative, solutions. This approach can benefit everyone in daily life, as it fosters:

• Logical Thinking: Engineering encourages logical reasoning and a systematic approach to tackling challenges. This mindset helps people make informed decisions, whether at work or in personal situations.
• Creative Problem Solving: Engineering combines technical knowledge with creativity to design solutions. Understanding basic engineering principles can spark creative approaches to everyday problems, from organizing a home space to managing complex projects at work.

With this foundation, people become better equipped to handle unexpected situations, think critically, and devise strategies to overcome obstacles in all walks of life.

Modern life is intertwined with technology, much of which is built on engineering principles. While not everyone needs to be an expert, a basic understanding of how things work can empower individuals to engage more confidently with technology. This applies to:

• Smart Devices and Gadgets: Understanding the basics of electronics and computing can demystify everyday devices, enabling people to troubleshoot issues, optimize usage, and even suggest improvements.
• Sustainability and Energy Efficiency: With a basic understanding of mechanical and electrical systems, individuals can make better choices regarding energy consumption, appliance efficiency, and sustainable practices, contributing to a greener environment.
• Data Literacy: Engineering principles underlie much of data science, which is now critical in decision-making processes. Knowing how data is collected, analyzed, and interpreted can benefit individuals in various fields, from healthcare to business.

As society becomes increasingly dependent on advanced technologies, the ability to comprehend and interact with these innovations becomes essential.

Engineering is not just for engineers. Many of the most transformative innovations come from people applying engineering principles to non-engineering fields. Basic knowledge of engineering can:

• Fuel Cross-Disciplinary Innovation: Whether in art, design, agriculture, or medicine, understanding how systems work can lead to breakthrough innovations. For example, medical devices, green energy solutions, and advanced manufacturing processes often emerge from cross-disciplinary thinkers who combine engineering with their specialized knowledge.
• Empower Entrepreneurs: Entrepreneurs across industries benefit from engineering principles. Understanding how products are designed, prototyped, and manufactured can lead to more efficient business models and products that better meet consumer needs.

Fostering a society where basic engineering knowledge is the norm encourages creativity and innovation in every field, not just within traditional engineering domains.

Engineering knowledge also has practical applications in day-to-day life. A person who understands basic engineering concepts is better prepared to maintain their home, fix minor issues, and ensure their environment is safe. Key benefits include:

• Basic DIY Skills: Knowing how to repair a broken appliance, fix a leaking pipe, or perform simple electrical work can save time, money, and resources. These skills also promote independence and reduce reliance on professional services for minor issues.
• Home and Workplace Safety: Understanding structural integrity, electrical safety, and mechanical systems can help individuals identify potential hazards and take preventive measures. For example, recognizing faulty wiring or understanding how to reinforce a structure can prevent accidents.
• Disaster Preparedness: Engineering principles play a crucial role in disaster preparedness and resilience. Knowledge of how to secure structures, protect against floods, or design emergency plans based on environmental engineering can enhance personal and community safety.

Such knowledge makes everyday life more efficient and helps individuals contribute to the safety and well-being of their communities.

The world faces complex challenges — climate change, water scarcity, food insecurity, and rapid urbanization — that require engineering solutions. As citizens, understanding the basics of how engineering contributes to solving these problems can:

• Increase Public Engagement: When people understand the engineering challenges behind climate change mitigation or infrastructure development, they can engage more actively in public debates and decision-making processes.
• Promote Informed Advocacy: Whether advocating for better public transportation, sustainable energy policies, or climate action, citizens with engineering knowledge can make more informed arguments and push for science-based solutions.
• Empower Sustainable Living: Knowledge of sustainable engineering practices can influence personal choices, from reducing waste to optimizing resource use. When individuals understand the impact of energy systems or water conservation technologies, they are more likely to adopt eco-friendly practices.

The basic principles of civil, environmental, and mechanical engineering, when widely understood, contribute to creating a society that can actively address global challenges.

Making basic engineering knowledge a social norm can help bridge the gap between professionals and the general public. Understanding engineering allows people to engage more meaningfully with the policies and decisions that shape their lives. This can:

• Democratize Knowledge: When engineering is accessible to all, it becomes less of an elite or specialized field. This democratization of knowledge can reduce barriers and create opportunities for people from all backgrounds to engage in technological or engineering-related careers.
• Inspire Future Generations: Introducing engineering principles early in education and making them part of the social fabric can inspire the next generation of innovators. When young people see engineering as part of their everyday lives, they are more likely to explore STEM careers.

Moreover, an engineering-literate society can better collaborate on solutions that drive progress, as it equips citizens with the tools to think critically and innovatively about the world’s problems.

Basic engineering knowledge should become a social norm, not just for the benefit of engineers, but for society as a whole. It fosters problem-solving skills, empowers individuals to engage with technology, drives innovation across fields, and enhances everyday life. Additionally, it enables informed decision-making, promotes safety, and helps address global challenges.

In a world where technology plays an ever-increasing role, understanding engineering principles equips individuals with the tools to navigate and shape the future. By making engineering accessible and relevant to everyone, we can create a society that is not only more capable of handling modern challenges but also one that encourages creativity, innovation, and sustainability in all aspects of life.