Question

In addition to the most current APA Ethical Principles of Psychologists and Code of Conduct, select one other ethics code from a professional social science association and examine how both ethical codes interweave the four basic principles of ethics into its model for the appropriate conduct of research.

Answer 1

ASA's Code of Ethics consist of an introduction, a preamble, five general principles, and specific ethical standards. The preamble and general principles of the code are aspirational goals to guide sociologists toward the highest ideals of sociologists in arriving at an ethical course of action and may be considered by ethics bodies in interpreting the ethical standards. The ethical standards set forth enforceable rules for conduct by sociologists. Most of the ethical standards are written broadly in order to apply to sociologists in varied roles, and the application of an ethical standard may vary depending on the context. The ethical standards are not exhaustive. Any conduct that is not specifically addressed by this code of ethics is not necessarily ethical or unethical. If psychologist's ethical responsibilities conflict with law, regulations, or other governing legal authority, psychologist make known their commitment to this ethics code and take steps to resolve the conflict in a responsible manner.

The below mentioned are the four basic principles of ethics into its model for the appropriate conduct of research:-

Principle A: Professional Competence- Sociologists strive to maintain the highest levels of competence in their work; they recognize the limitations of their expertise; and they undertake only those task for which they are qualified by education, training, or experience. They recognize the need for on going education in order to remain professionally competent; and they utilize the appropriate scientific, professional, technical, and administrative resources needed to ensure competence in their professional activities. They consult with other professionals when necessary for the benefit of their students, research participants, and clients.

Principle B: Integrity- Sociologists are honest, fair, and respectful of others in their professional activities- in research, teaching, practice, and service. Sociologists do not knowingly act in ways that jeopardize either their own or other's professional welfare. Sociologists conduct their affairs in ways that inspire trust and confidence; they do not knowingly make statements that are false, misleading, or deceptive.

Principle C: Professional and Scientific Responsibility- Sociologists adhere to the highest scientific and professional standards and accept responsibility for their work. Sociologists understand that they form a community and show respect for other sociologists even why they disagree on theoretical, methodological, or personal approaches to professional activities. Sociologists value the public trust in sociology and are concerned about their ethical behaviour and that of other sociologists that might compromise that trust. While endeavoring always to be collegial, sociologists must never let the desire to be collegial outweigh their shared responsibility for ethical behaviour. When appropriate, they consult with colleagues in order to prevent or avoid unethical conduct.

Principle D: Social Responsibility- Sociologists are aware of their professional and scientific responsibility to the communities amd societies in which they live and work. They apply amd make public their knowledge in order to contribute to the public good. When undertaking research, they strive to advance the science of sociology and to serve the public good.