Discussion on “the engineer's activity in public affairs — Public utility commissions and franchise valuations”, at New York, April 10, 1908

George S. Coleman: In one respect I agree with Mr. Floy, engineers as a class are, perhaps, a little too modest; but I do not quite agree that engineers ought to be considered in any wise responsible for matters which are hard enough for other men to handle, men who are devoting all their time to it. I do think, however, that the time has come when groups of engineers, different kinds of engineers, should give the benefit of their concerted thought and action to any public question on which they are supposed to be especially well informed. In the case of a new bridge across any of our rivers, or a new subway, or a new elevated railroad, in fact any kind of engineering work likely to affect the public, this Institute, and every body of engineers who in any way might be related to that enterprise, should be heard officially. If Mr. Floy's suggestion this evening shall encourage among engineers the habit of not merely quiet, independent thought in their work, but concerted action after discussion, he will have accomplished a notable result.