The philosophy of construction economics

In this chapter, the authors survey a wide range of philosophical, moral and ethical issues confronting firms and individuals in the construction industry. Conflict between parties in construction projects leads to adversarial behaviour. Because it is a project-orientated industry, there is often little continuity between the contractors and their clients and trust is lost between them as building proposals tend to benefit some and harm the interests of others. Trade associations and professional bodies expect that all work undertaken should be in accordance with good practice and all should act in the interests of their clients, having regard for the public interest, health and safety, and even future generations. At the same time, all members are expected to show regard for the environment and the sustainable management of natural resources. Nevertheless, examples of unethical behaviour include knowingly damaging the environment and social discrimination, as occurs in many parts of society.