CHAPTER 4, Section 2 of 2 Ethics

What is ethics? Ethics is ‘that branch of philosophy which is concerned with human character and conduct; a system of morals or rules of behaviour’ Chambers dictionary, 1993: 55

Why is it important to think about ethics? Because it is the right thing to do? What is ‘the right thing’? Student Activity 1

Ethical obligations

Obligations, legal and professional Legal obligations – mandated by law therefore conformance is required. Otherwise, there are sanctions Professional obligations – rules of practice, governed by professional bodies. They also have the right of sanction.

Obligations, cultural and personal Cultural obligations – standards set by society. Conformance leads to acceptance. No formal right of sanction until codified into law. Personal obligations – an individual’s decision regarding what is and what is not acceptable behaviour. Student Activity 2

Ethical responsibilities in research

Responsibilities to participants Respect Think about the consequences of your research on them: – consequences of the process – consequences of the results – confidentiality issues

Informed consent Giving people sufficient accurate information about your research to ensure that they are able to make a well-reasoned decision regarding their participation: –Deception: giving false or misleading information or a ‘partial’ truth –Coercion: the use of pressure, threats or enticements to encourage people to participate

Responsibilities to sponsors Mutual respect – shared clarity about the research objectives Integrity – dealing with people, data and information in genuine and trustworthy ways Loyalty – discuss any necessary changes, meet obligations and recognise limitations

Responsibilities to the wider research community To retain academic integrity – reference properly To produce genuine and trustworthy findings –do not skew data or results –do not falsify data or results –do not misrepresent data or results Student Activity 3

Ethic approval processes Most institutions require you to have been given ethical approval before you collect any primary data: –This protects you as a researcher –This protects your respondents/ sponsors –This protects the institution. Familiarise yourself with your own institution’s processes.