Topic > Ethics for anthropologists and social scientists

Ethics, in anthropological research, outlines what is right and what is wrong in the motivations and actual behavior of anthropologists (Looking at us, 2010 p.46). The well-being of all participants, human or animal, should be the highest priority of anthropologists. The anthropologist should work towards the preservation of all the knowledge gained from his research, and his research should be a benefit to all involved. All participants should have a clear understanding of what participation entails and should have the final say on how to remain anonymous or be recognized for their role in the study (Looking at us, 2010 p.46). Anthropologists and other social scientists have some things to consider especially when conducting research with people. Participant safety should be at the top of the list. Next would be participant privacy. It would be morally wrong to disclose information that the participant has asked to remain private. An anthropologist should never be deceitful in carrying out his research. All participants should be treated with respect. As researchers, anthropologists should remain neutral and be respectful of each individual participant. A researcher cannot judge when working with people, regardless of the religion, race, culture, political affiliation, traditions, sexual orientation, gender or language spoken of the participants. A code of ethics is important for all social scientists. It should be noted that the American Anthropological Association Code of Ethics, 1998 (1998 AAA code), “does not dictate behavior or provide sanctions. It is designed to promote discussion and provide general guidelines for ethically responsible decisions” (Looking at us, 2010 p.46). This means that the social scientist has a responsibility not to be ethically compromised by what he or she chooses to research or how he or she conducts that research. There is no way for a researcher to know every circumstance that might occur. Having a code of ethics can serve as a set of guidelines in case something unexpected happens. A code of ethics can also serve as a reminder of what is right and what is wrong. The code of ethics can help an anthropologist avoid getting involved in morally questionable projects. Can ensure that credits have been awarded to all students and assistants on the project. It can protect from any harm to any participant. The code of ethics ensures that other researchers and also the public have access to new discoveries and that all knowledge is shared so that it can be developed.