Advanced Research Methods for the Social and Behavioral Sciences

Social science research can only be a means to a better world if the knowledge that it produces is informed by ethical and responsible research, respecting the dignity of human beings. The concern about ethical research has led to a commitment to create a culture of best practices in the field of Social Science research. Ethics, on the one hand, helps researchers to carry out their research honourably, honestly, objectively and responsibly with the goal to improve a comprehensive understanding of human behaviour in social contexts. On the other hand, it also underlines key values important for teamwork such as trust, responsibility, generosity, respect, fairness and authorship, among others. These values help facilitate the progress of science. This chapter examines how ethical principles are important to the research profession, and explores the implications of these principles for third parties that constitute the research ecosystem. Finally, it provides some conclusions, suggested readings and ideas for future research.