I’m a physics student and interested in a job in research. Is it ethical to work for a company that works on defence projects, even if the work I’d be doing was completely non-defence related?

It’s up to you to think through your own values and work out what you think is ethical. Think about how comfortable you would be working in a company that makes money from defence, and with colleagues who may have very different values to you. If you’re working on projects that make money for the company, be aware that these profits may be invested into the company’s defence projects.

If you do decide to work for a company which engages in work you are ethically opposed to, make it clear from the start that you would not be happy working on these areas. Scientific research is a difficult area because of the potential dual use of knowledge and technology, and you would have to consider these issues in any research position.

Pugwash is an organisation committed to promoting the beneficial applications of science, and has interesting discussion papers on ethics and science on its website. You could also look at the Scientists for Global Responsibility, which has general information (including a paper entitled ‘Understanding the Military Influence on Science and Technology’) as well as a section devoted to ethical careers. You can also download their briefings on the ethical implications of a range of scientific careers.

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