(Epistemic) Injustice and Resistance in Canadian Research Ethics Governance

Area of Science:

• Philosophy of Science
• Research Ethics
• Sociology of Research

Background:

• Research ethics governance in Canada relies on underlying beliefs about ethical research.
• These beliefs form an epistemic infrastructure that may have deficiencies.
• Community engagement suggests gaps in the current research ethics system.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically analyze deficiencies in Canada's research ethics governance.
• To examine epistemic injustice and ignorance within research ethics.
• To highlight community-led initiatives in research ethics.

Main Methods:

• Philosophical analysis drawing on literature of epistemic injustice and ignorance.
• Examination of empirical evidence across three levels: research ethics boards, regulations, and training.
• Case studies of community-led research ethics practices.

Main Results:

• Identified deficiencies in the epistemic infrastructure of Canadian research ethics governance.
• Demonstrated how epistemic injustice and ignorance manifest in research ethics boards, regulations, and training.
• Documented community efforts to address and rework research ethics.

Conclusions:

• The current system of research ethics governance in Canada exhibits epistemic deficiencies.
• Community-led initiatives represent epistemic resistance and offer models for improvement.
• Further philosophical and empirical examination is needed to strengthen research ethics governance.