Research Ethics, Overview

Science journalists and other communicators of scientific information often write about—or otherwise respond to—a variety of ethical controversies that arise in research, such as claims about falsified data or the mistreatment of subjects in research. Frequently, when the topic of research ethics is raised, a discussion of “human subjects research” follows. However, research ethics encompasses a broader domain that includes issues beyond those involving the participation of human beings in research or the performance of unethical behavior. Research ethics includes values, regulations, guidelines, and norms that structure how research should be conducted. Further, although the perception tends to be that the focus of research ethics is about forms of misconduct, it is [Page 633]not merely about wrongdoing. Research ethics also addresses the more “positive” facets of research, including how to be more productive, how to create a more collegial environment, and what is needed to uphold the public's trust.

The terms research ethics and responsible conduct of research are often used interchangeably, but they do not always mean the same thing. In some contexts, for example, the former term refers to the more theoretical, philosophical dimensions of research, which may include asking whether ethical theory is useful in resolving a particular research problem. On the other hand, the focus of the latter term tends to be on research compliance, which involves how researchers, administrators, and others should adhere to laws, regulations, and institutional guidelines governing research. Yet when scholars use the term research ethics, frequently they intend to address both philosophical and compliance-related matters.

Among the main types of resources that might assist researchers in the effort to learn about ethically appropriate research practice are ethics codes from professional organizations, institutional guidelines, journal policies, and government regulations and laws. Research ethics discussions also take place in scholarly publications as well as within the pages of other publications that reach scientific communities and the public.