> As developers, we are often one of the last lines of
    > defense [sic] against potentially dangerous and
    > unethical practices

I think this article is a prime example of how professional institutions can be just as important in software engineering as other fields more typically associated with such bodies.

Just because software isn't a physical entity like a bridge that can physically collapse on someone, it seems to be the view of many that a professional body with guidance on ethics, best practice, et al. has no relevance.