The Importance of Being Historical: Civil Engineers and Their History

Abstract

Should civil engineers be interested in the history of their profession? The paper affirms this question as it examines different approaches to the history of civil engineering. Biographical or “heroic” studies of famous engineers or artifacts attract young people to the profession. Historical knowledge provides designers or managers with new perspectives on contemporary design problems, or problems within the organization for which they work. Historical case studies instill a sense of professional identity, values, and responsibility in students, as well as broaden their technical experience. Knowledge of history and of methods of historical research also helps the profession deal with its burden of history, old infrastructure.