<< Previous Section | < Previous Page | Next Page > | Next Section >> Practical Elements of Responsible Research Conduct (page 1 of 3) Conducting and reporting research Role of the hypothesis Critical nature of experimental design The tentativeness of conclusions Skepticism and humility tempered with conviction Dealing with surprises - serendipity Communicating with colleagues Communicating with the community- media Social responsibility of scientists Is it appropriate to consider the broader consequences of the pursuit of a scientific question? "I just make discoveries about nature, others use my discoveries for better or worse (nuclear energy, synthesis of viruses, very toxic compounds)." "I must consider the predictable consequences of my research and decide in advance if I will create serious ethical problems as a result of its outcomes." "It matters not that others might discover what I avoid seeking because of its consequences. I do not have to contribute to the misfortune of humanity in my research." "The true consequences of a research effort are impossible to predict and it is the height of arrogance not to pursue a promising avenue of science just because of qualms about its misuse." "How do I design and interpret my work not to bias the conclusions?" "Do scientists have the responsibility to make every effort to enter their work into the scientific record whether it is positive or negative?" << Previous Section | < Previous Page | Next Page > | Next Section >> Chapter 1 Quick Links The Ethical Basis of RCRH The Nature of Science Research Integrity Professionalism in Science Practical Elements of Responsible Research Conduct Cases Bibliography Chapter 1 Download (PDF)