Ethics

Question 1

What are Ethics? (6 points)

Answer 1

• A set of principles & procedures for conducting research in a moral & responsible way
• Concerns the treatment of human subjects taking part in the research:
• It is the idea that the researcher must ensure the welfare & safety of their research participants
• The basic ethical principles that are widely-accepted in the social science community today demand that:
• Research participants be treated with respect
• They be protected from harm

Question 2

List 2 basic ethical principles and procedures that are followed in social research?

Answer 2

1. Informed Consent
2. Research must not expose their subjects to a potential risk of physical or psychological harm

Question 3

Explain “Informed Consent” (2 points).

Answer 3

• Idea that researchers should inform their subjects, before the study begins, of any potential risks, and that their participation is voluntary.
• Respecting their subjects’ freedom of choice.

Question 4

Explain “Research must not expose their subjects to a potential risk of physical or psychological harm” (2 points).

Answer 4

• The researcher must respect their subjects’ right to personal safety.
• If there is a risk, then the research must not be done.