Professionalism: Use It — Or Lose It

Declining professionalism is a threat to the future of AAPG.

Professionalism in the geosciences is declining for several reasons. The attitude of some employees and companies has in general shifted to short-term outlooks and anything to maximize the profit (the end justifies the means, regardless). Some employees often take the easiest way out, or finish the task at hand with the minimum amount of effort.

The marginalization of the petroleum geoscientist in many companies is particularly troublesome. The overall support that industry gives professional societies is also decreasing.

Professional ethics have deteriorated along with the attitude. One can pick up any news periodical and read about corporate malfeasance or individual impropriety.

The education background of today's professionals may not be sufficient for an ever-changing industry — and a lack of proper training and mentors compounds the problem.

Society often does not recognize professions such as petroleum geology. The poor public image of the petroleum industry contributes to the problem, because this lack of recognition keeps young individuals from entering the business.

Success as measured by society is often by monetary gain only. What kind of house do you own? What kind of car do you drive? Different types of recognition would greatly aid in professional development. Success is defined as a favorable or desired outcome and is not necessarily tied to money alone.

Because of the above perceptions, I submit to you that one of the threats to AAPG is declining professionalism.

Geologists are both scientists and professionals. The late Charlie Dodge used to describe geology as the "oldest" profession. Science pertains to accumulated knowledge. Geology is derived from Greek: ge- for "the earth" and logos for "science." Geology is the study of the earth, its history and the processes that shape it. The term was first used in this sense in 1778.

Professions are vocations or occupations requiring advanced education and training in some liberal art or science, and usually involving mental rather than manual work, such as teaching, engineering, geology, medicine, law or theology, and often for a monetary gain.

The earliest meaning of "profess" comes from those professing the vows of a religious order. Clergy professed a duty to God. Professionalism meant the act of professing. Late in the 17th century, "profession" took on a secular meaning, and was extended to medicine and law. In the 19th century it was extended to surveying and engineering.

Today it is often used as a principal calling or vocation, or employment. Competitive athletes paid for their performances are referred to as professional, a far cry from its original meaning.