Responsible Conduct of Research

Social Responsibilities of Researchers

The outcomes of research have become integral parts of modern society. Researchers have an obligation to relate this new knowledge to society in such a way that the general public can make informed decisions. The general public provides the financial support that makes all research possible. The occurrence and consequences of research discoveries are essentially impossible to foresee. If a discovery is found to have important implications for the public, researchers have a responsibility to call attention to the public issues involved. Public forums involving experts with different perspectives may be held. Ultimately, a consensus of informed judgment can be reached and disseminated to the public.

The research enterprise has grown enormously since the end of World War II. Yet the core ethical values upon which this enterprise is based -- honesty, skepticism, fairness, collegiality, openness -- remain unchanged. These values have helped produce a research enterprise of unparalleled productivity and creativity. As long as these values remain prominent, research and the society which it serves will prosper.