ISSUES AND DEBATES ( ETHICAL IMPLI & SOCIAL SENSITIVITY)

Question 1

What is meant by socially sensitive research and give an eg of such research

Answer 1

Socially sensitive research is used to describe studies where there are potential social consequences for the participants or the group of people in the research

eg. Milgram’s study could be socially sensitive because the results could be used to ensure people obey orders including those they don’t wish to follow.

Question 2

Outline the costs and benefits of Social sensitivity research

Answer 2

Costs :
- Many studies treat people like lab rats and do not consider ppt’s human rights.
- Many ignore the social impact of publishing controversial research that still has not gained conclusive findings
- Some studies affect future human behaviour negatively

Benefits :
- Better understanding may help in combating societal issues like racism
- Combating public complacency
- Making sure justice is served
- May help to combat power abuse eg in the army
- Helping decide what is suitable for children to watch on TV

Question 3

How can implications of SSR be dealt with

Answer 3

Privacy/Confidentiality - Investigators may take more information from ppts than needed leading to invasion of privacy

Informed consent - Potential participants may not always comprehend what is involved

Risk/Benefit ration - risks or costs should be minimised , but problems arise in determining risks as well as benefits.