The law stands guard over individual human rights. Engineers who enjoy individual freedoms may cherish them as citizens, but nevertheless fail to include their costs in the professional analysis of an engineering product or service. Individual liberties are expensive. While democratic principles permit a majority to select lawmakers, the law requires that individuals be treated fairly by society. The tension within the law itself among egalitarianism, libertarianism, and utilitarianism requires that each point of view be expressed.
Engineers enrich the way the law works by advocating the utilitarian position.
However, the goal of the law is the avoidance of disputes, or, failing that, the resolution of disputes in a manner acceptable to society. Engineers should understand the utility of diversity in the complex process for reaching this goal. A better understanding between lawyers and engineers should enable each profession to help society and its individual members achieve a batter life.