In this paper, a critical analysis is presented of aspects of contemporary legal systems, from the perspective of engineers who desire to perform their profession in an ethical or socially responsible way, or who wish to contribute positively, through their professional work, to human well-being. It is argued that such aspirations are at present obstructed or impaired by certain aspects of contemporary legislation. Three such aspects are analysed, that is, the legal stipulations governing (1) secrecy, (2) liability and (3) responsibility of and within hierarchical organizations. Indications are given of the directions in which these areas of law may be changed to enable and safeguard ethical and socially responsible conduct of engineers. Implications are drawn for the engineering curriculum and for the community of engineers. (Contains 4 notes.)