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Difference in scientists' discourse about scientific fraud and impropriety.
1Department of Psychology, University of Adelaide, GPO Box 498, Adelaide SA 5001, Australia.
Australian Psychologist
|July 1, 1991
Summary
Scientists perceive scientific fraud differently. Some view it as individual failings, while others see it as an expected outcome of science as a social system.
Area of Science:
- Sociology of Science
- Scientific Ethics
- Research Integrity
Background:
- Scientific fraud and impropriety are significant concerns within the scientific community.
- Understanding scientists' perceptions of misconduct is crucial for addressing its root causes and impacts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate how practicing scientists conceptualize scientific fraud and impropriety.
- To identify different perspectives on the nature and causes of scientific misconduct among researchers.
Main Methods:
- A Q-sort methodology was employed with 51 practicing scientists.
- Participants sorted 90 statements related to scientific fraud and impropriety.
- Principal components analysis was used to identify distinct viewpoints.
Main Results:
- Two primary groups of scientists emerged based on their Q-sorts.
- Group 1 (N=18) holds a conventional view, attributing misconduct to individual scientist shortcomings.
- Group 2 (N=7) adopts a critical stance, viewing misconduct as inherent to science as a social institution.
Conclusions:
- Scientists' perspectives on fraud and impropriety vary significantly.
- These differing views have implications for understanding and debating scientific misconduct.
- Recognizing these diverse perspectives is key to developing effective strategies for research integrity.