Why is it important to examine sample characteristics prior to beginning data
examination?
Carey, the agency researcher, conducts research to determine consumers’ reactions to
the client’s latest advertising campaign. Carey remembers that the selection of the
campaign’s spokesperson was a controversial decision, with the client only grudgingly
going along with the agency recommendation. The results show that consumers are
very positive toward the campaign with one exception: they absolutely hate the
spokesperson. Cary asks: “Since overall reactions are so positive, why don’t I eliminate
from the full report the survey questions that explore reactions to the spokesperson?
Why bring up a controversial issue that everyone agrees is settled?”
Is Carey acting ethically?
Peter is working on a press release for a research study his agency has just conducted.
The press release notes that a full report is available. John plans to only include in the
report the data that is favorable to his agency. Is this an ethical practice?