Ethics and Politics of Research Ethical principles of data collection Institutional review boards Ethical principles of research reporting Political considerations

Principle 1: Voluntary participation No coercion, persuasion No inappropriate use of authority Participants know they have a choice May conflict with: generalizability of results concealing researcher ID

Principle 2: No harm to participants “Harm” may include embarrassment, psychological discomfort. Harm may occur after publication of results. Risk of harm may be justified if potential benefits are high AND participants are aware of risk.

Principle 3: Informed consent Purpose of research Who is doing the research Risks Benefits Compensation Participation is voluntary No penalty for quitting early

Principle 4: Protect participants’ identity Anonymity – researcher doesn’t know ID Confidentiality – researcher knows but keeps secret. Increased concern for privacy Destroy all identifying info after finishing study Be cautious of leaks, subpoenas

Principle 5: Benefits outweigh risks Consider costs, risks, benefits to: Research participant Society/ community Scientific knowledge

Institutional Review Boards Required by federal law for any institution that receives federal funds. Used at most universities, regardless of funding Composed of faculty, other researchers All research projects must be pre-approved Major purpose is protection of subjects’ rights

U of MN Research Review Boards Link to web page: http://www.research.umn.edu/subjects/

Research Reporting Ethics Honest accounting of methods Honest presentation of results Acknowledge weaknesses of study Keep complete records Avoid using data to “lie” Acknowledge sponsors, reviewers, and others who helped Protect subjects’ identity

Political Issues in Research Objectivity vs. solving social problems Controversial findings Public reaction, interpretation Sponsorship or payment