Ethics and Social
Research
Chapter 3
Introduction
◼Ethical principles in research
◼The set of values, standards, and principles
used to determine appropriate and acceptable
conduct at all stages of the research process
Introduction
◼Stop and Think
◼Do you know of any research projects in the
social sciences, medicine, or biology where
researchers did something that was ethically
questionable?
◼What was it about the study that raised
questions for you?
Introduction
◼Historical perspectives on research ethics
◼American Psychological Association (APA)
◼American Sociological Association (ASA)
Introduction
◼Historical perspectives on research ethics
◼Total disregard for the human dignity perpetrated
during World War II by researchers in
concentration camps controlled by Nazi Germany
◼Air pressure
◼Cold water
◼Treatment of wounds
◼Exposure to chemical-warfare agents
◼Essential to have voluntary consent of human
subjects
Introduction
•Historical perspectives on research ethics
•Nuremberg Code
•Principles about research on human beings
Introduction
•Historical perspectives on research ethics
◼Atomic Energy Commission
◼Conducted research on the effects of radiation on
