Overview
This lecture introduces ethical concerns in sociological research, emphasizing core ethical principles, the ASA Code of Ethics, and infamous cases of unethical studies.
Ethical Responsibilities in Sociological Research
- Sociologists have a duty to avoid harming human subjects or groups during research.
- Knowledge from research holds power and must be used responsibly for positive change.
- Researchers must not let personal values or biases distort interpretation or reporting of results.
Value Neutrality and Bias
- Max Weber stressed "value neutrality"—staying impartial and not letting personal values shape research findings.
- Sociologists should report all significant data, even if it challenges their views or expectations.
- Complete objectivity may not be possible, but minimizing biases is essential.
American Sociological Association (ASA) Code of Ethics
- The ASA Code of Ethics provides formal guidelines for sociological research.
- Key ethical requirements for research with human subjects:
- Maintain objectivity and integrity.
- Respect subjects' privacy and dignity.
- Protect subjects from harm.
- Preserve confidentiality.
- Obtain informed consent.
- Acknowledge all collaboration and assistance.
- Disclose sources of financial support.
Notorious Unethical Studies
- Tuskegee Experiment: African American men with syphilis were denied treatment to study the disease's effects.
- Henrietta Lacks: Cancer patient's cells were taken and shared without her consent, leading to the creation of "HeLa" cell lines.
- Milgram Experiment: Participants believed they were harming others, causing psychological distress under authority pressure.
- Stanford Prison Experiment: Student participants suffered harm due to their assigned prisoner or guard roles.
- Laud Humphreys Study: Researcher misrepresented intent and identity to study same-sex encounters, breaching ethical norms.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Value Neutrality — Remaining impartial and unbiased during research and when publishing results.
- Informed Consent — Ensuring research participants know and agree to what participation involves.
- ASA Code of Ethics — Official set of ethical standards for sociological research set by the American Sociological Association.
- Confidentiality — Protecting private information from being disclosed without consent.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review the ASA Code of Ethics in detail.
- Prepare examples of ethical and unethical research for class discussion.
- Reflect on potential ethical dilemmas in your own research interests.