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Balancing ethical quandaries with scientific rigor: Part 2
L Pallikkathayil1, F Crighton, L S Aaronson
1University of Kansas School of Nursing, USA.
Western Journal of Nursing Research
|August 1, 1998
Summary
Social science research involves subtle ethical issues beyond major misconduct. A team approach and reflective practice are crucial for navigating these dilemmas, ensuring scientific rigor and ethical integrity.
Area of Science:
- Social Sciences
- Research Ethics
Background:
- Traditional research ethics focus on severe misconduct like data fabrication.
- Subtle, common ethical quandaries in social science research often receive less attention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the importance of less serious, subtle ethical issues in social science research.
- To emphasize the need for greater attention to these ethical challenges in scientific literature and practice.
Main Methods:
- This article (Part 2) provides examples of addressing ethical dilemmas in actual social science studies.
- Emphasizes the individual and reflective nature of confronting ethical issues.
- Highlights the benefits of a team approach to ethical decision-making.
Main Results:
- A team approach to ethical dilemmas fostered honesty, shared responsibility, and leveraged team strengths.
- The team approach led to improved scientific and ethical resolutions.
- Vigilance and responsiveness are key to managing subtle ethical quandaries in social research.
Conclusions:
- Addressing subtle ethical issues in social science research requires a reflective, study-specific process.
- No fixed rules exist; a deliberative approach balancing scientific rigor and ethics is essential.
- Team collaboration enhances the ethical and scientific outcomes of social research.