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A network approach for distinguishing ethical issues in research and development
Sjoerd D Zwart1, Ibo van de Poel, Harald van Mil
1Delft University of Technology, Department of Philosophy, School of Technology, Policy and Management, PO Box 5015, 2600 GA Delft, the Netherlands. s.d.zwart@tbm.tudelft.nl
Network analysis offers a novel method for identifying ethical issues in research and development, particularly for new wastewater treatment technologies. This approach aids in understanding stakeholder perspectives on risks without necessitating ethical relativism.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Engineering
- Research Ethics
- Social Network Analysis
Background:
- Ethical considerations are crucial in developing novel technologies like advanced wastewater treatment systems.
- Traditional ethical frameworks may struggle to capture the complex interactions and emergent issues in R&D.
- Stakeholder engagement is vital for identifying potential risks and ethical challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the application of network analysis for discerning and analyzing ethical issues in wastewater treatment technology R&D.
- To demonstrate the utility of network analysis in interpreting stakeholder discussions on technological risks.
- To propose network analysis as a valuable tool for ethical analysis across various R&D fields.
Main Methods:
- Utilized network analysis techniques to interpret observations from a Group Decision Room (GDR) session.
- Engaged key stakeholders to discuss risks associated with a new wastewater treatment technology.
- Qualitatively analyzed network structures and interactions to identify ethical themes.
Main Results:
- Network analysis provided preliminary interpretations of stakeholder concerns regarding the new technology.
- The approach highlighted specific ethical issues emerging from the technology's development and deployment.
- Observed that network analysis can effectively map and understand complex ethical landscapes.
Conclusions:
- Network analysis is a practical and effective method for ethical analysis in technology R&D.
- This approach aids in understanding stakeholder perceptions and potential ethical conflicts.
- Network analysis offers a framework for ethical deliberation that moves beyond strict rationality assumptions, avoiding ethical relativism.
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