Ethics Webinar | Ethical Strategies for an Irrational World

We’ve all heard of tricks of the eye before, but what about tricks of the mind? As much as we would like to believe that we are rational thinkers and we base our decisions on evidence alone, the reality is far more complicated. 

This presentation will explore tricks of the mind, specifically the unseen biases that affect all of us and threaten to lead us astray on a daily basis. Whether it is being overly optimistic about a project’s success, dismissing the risk to the public, or making poor choices to avoid a small loss, our most important decisions are often shaped by completely unrelated factors (including how long it has been since we have last eaten). And while the effects may be minor in many circumstances, they can also lead to serious ethical lapses. At worst, they can potentially lead to catastrophic results such as the pedestrian bridge collapse at the Florida International University or the Space Shuttle Challenger explosion, both of which will be explored. 

Together, we will explore some of the mental shortcuts and illusions that are most commonly encountered by engineers. And more importantly, we’ll explore how to combat their impact in the workplace. My hope is you will never again think the same way about how you think.

Aaron Mann is a Senior Principal with Terracon Consultants and serves as their Chief Legal Officer. He has been practicing law for more than two decades with a focus on managing risk and resolving business disputes. Aaron regularly manages outside counsel acting on behalf of the company and works internally to troubleshoot project issues and avoid disputes before they escalate. He also handles internal investigations and helps implement Terracon’s ethics program. He is a frequent presenter at past events hosted by ACEC, ACI, ASCE, GBA, NSPE, and others. 

Prior to joining Terracon in early 2016, Aaron was a partner at Husch Blackwell, an AmLaw 100 law firm, where his practice focused on commercial and cross-border litigation. During his time with Husch Blackwell, Aaron spent four years working in the firm’s office in London, England. Aaron began his career serving as a judicial clerk for a U.S. District Judge in Kansas City, Missouri. Aaron earned his J.D. from Creighton University School of Law in 2001. 

Attendees receive 1 Ethics PDH