Mapping the Scientific Mesolevel: Where Are We Aiming?

Area of Science:

• Science and Technology Studies
• Research Ethics
• Sociology of Science

Background:

• Formal team structures are increasingly common in scientific research.
• Existing research ethics frameworks often focus on individual researchers or formal teams.
• The role of informal networks in shaping scientific practices is under-examined.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critique the focus on formal teams in research ethics.
• To advocate for a broader analysis of ethical issues within the "interstitial spaces" of science.
• To highlight the significance of informal networks in scientific inquiry and norms.

Main Methods:

• Commentary and critical analysis of existing approaches to research ethics.
• Examination of informal networks, including power dynamics, esteem, funding, and publication.
• Theoretical argument for integrating the study of science culture into research ethics.

Main Results:

• Formal teams may not be the most effective target for analyzing research ethics.
• Informal networks significantly influence scientific careers, team formation, funding, and publication.
• These informal structures play a crucial role in shaping scientific inquiry and ethical norms.

Conclusions:

• A richer, more rigorous, and effective ethics of team science requires studying the culture of science.
• Formal organizing principles should be evaluated based on their ability to promote and protect ethical commitments within the broader scientific culture.
• Future research ethics frameworks should encompass both formal and informal aspects of scientific collaboration.