Cognitive dissonance in geotechnical engineering
Dr Burt Look
Cognitive dissonance is the incompatibility between any two elements of knowledge or belief. We often filter information that conflicts with what we already believe, to avoid contradictory statements occurring. The term can also be loosely used when contradictory statements occur. There are many contradictory statements in Geotechnical Engineering – a few of these will be discussed.
There are many common geotechnical practices that have historically served the engineering community well, but continue to be used in common practice, even when later knowledge has shown inconsistencies. Can risk management substitute for data? But even with data, why would a group of Engineers presented with the same data so often have different conclusions? When did data become a point of view? A sampling of such dissonance in common geotechnical practice is presented through case studies.
About the AGS Practitioner Award
This biennial award is for significant contribution to the practice of the geotechnical profession and the life-blood of the Society. This award complements our other awards, and particularly the E.H. Davis Memorial Lecture.
Basis of the Award
The award recognises contributions of the highest order over an extended period with a commitment to the geotechnical profession in Australia and the Australian Geomechanics Society.
About the speaker
Dr Burt Look Principal, Foundations Specialists – Geotechnics + Foundations
Dr Look completed his Master’s degree in Soil Mechanics and Engineering Seismology at Imperial College, London, and his PhD part-time at The University of Queensland while also working at Queensland Main Roads. He also has a Graduate Certificate in Philosophy from The University of Queensland.
Burt has 39 years of professional Engineering experience with his early years in structural and civil works. He was previously the Global Practice Leader in SKM (now Jacobs), and also at Aurecon. Burt is the 2014 Queensland Professional Engineer of the year and the Australian Geomechanics Society (AGS) Practitioner 2018. Burt was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) in 2020. Burt has published 3 geotechnical engineering books and over 90 technical publications focused on industry practice developments.
Engineers Australia members participating in AGS technical sessions can record attendance on their personal CPD logs. Members should refer to Engineers Australia CPD policy for details on CPD types, requirements and auditing guidelines.