ethical implications of research studies and theory Flashcards
socially-sensitive research
The biological approach also makes use of brain scans to make inferences about localisation of brain function. For example, the use of PET scans by Tulving et al. helped to establish that semantic memories were recalled from the left prefrontal cortex, whilst episodic memories were recalled from the right prefrontal cortex.
examples of socially sensitive research: bowlbys monotropic attachment theory
Bowlby was an advisor to the World Health
Organisation in the 1950s, following his theory that the critical period for attachment formation with the primary caregiver was the first 2 years of life, and maternal deprivation during this time could have severe emotional and intellectual consequences
for the child i.e. affectionless psychopathy/ criminality and mental retardation. Therefore, this led to Britain being one of the only countries in the EU not offering free
childcare for children under the age of 5.
examples of socially sensitive research: . Burt’s research into intelligence
Burt (1955) fraudulently published research
demonstrating that the heritability coefficient for intelligence was 0.77, and so played a significant part in the development of the 11+ examinations. Despite his work being proven as false and fraudulent, the 11+ exams still exist to this day, as well as the idea
that children can be organised according to their ‘natural intelligence’ from an early
age.
what are the consequences of socially sensitive research?
Uses/public policy (e.g. Burt’s influence on the 11+ exams), the validity of research (e.g. Burt’s work being proven as false) and the implications of the research (on the way in which individuals or groups of people view themselves and the way in which they’re viewed by society).
