Are You Really Sure? Good Research Practice and an Introduction to Research Ethics and Its Principles

Researchers are expected not only to perform methodologically conscientious work and produce valid results, but also to reflect ethically on their actions and make a socially relevant contribution. The ALLEA European Code of Conduct, for example, describes science as a part of society with a special responsibility which not only implies respect for colleagues and test persons but also demands respect for ecosystems, cultural heritage and the environment. To what extent is this extensive responsibility actually feasible? What can society expect from research at this point?

Modern research ethics is concerned with these questions. They include, on the one hand, reflections on the ethical standards within the scientific community which establish a common scientific ethos and, on the other hand, ethical evaluations of the consequences of scientific activity for society and the environment.

A high level of individual and institutional integrity is expected which can be understood as a self-commitment of researchers to adhere to the basic rules of good research practice. They are the basis for any scientific activity and a prerequisite for the credibility and acceptance of science. This basis implies not only an individual responsibility of researchers for their actions, but also an institutional responsibility on the part of research institutions which are obliged to create the necessary framework conditions (e.g. ombudspersons, ethics committees, training opportunities) for good research practice.