One of the greatest problems faced by all researchers, and in fact all professionals, is the possibility of his or her work being abused unethically. As shown in the article "Ethics and Mapping the Brain", the line between professionalism and ethics may not be defined clearly. As a researcher, how can one predict and minimize, or even prevent abuse of his or her work? There is no single definite answer to this question. However, I would still offer my opinion on the best way to deal with this.
If I was a researcher, I would first try to predict how my work might be misused by consulting colleagues, seniors or even authorities. Next, with the help from the same people, I would start setting clear standards on how and under what circumstances should my research work be used. These standards must be backed up with legal consequences. If unethical abuse of my work is against the law, it would deter most people significantly, especially if heavy fines or imprisonment is imposed, depending on the nature of my research and how it is abused. Another way to minimize abuse is to restrict the number of people or organizations allowed to implement my work. The less people allowed to use my research work, the less chance of it getting abused unethically.
Ultimately, there is no way to totally prevent the abuse of research work. Either people abuse it out of sight of the law, or they may find ways to abuse it that was not predicted, and hence are not against the initial standards that were set. Still, by drawing a clear line as to what can or cannot be done and with help from the law, unethical exploitation of one's work can be minimized. Thus, it is the researchers' responsibility to take all the appropriate actions necessary, from prediction to prevention.
Reference
1. Marano, L (2003 June 3). Ethics and mapping the brain. Retrieved November 7, 2008 from Center for Cognitive Liberty & Ethics. Web site: http://www.cognitiveliberty.org/neuro/brain_mapping_ethics.htm
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4 comments:
hi michael nice ending. i like the part where you said 'from prediction to prevention' which gives a good impact of the essay. excellent work done and i hope you do the same in exam! good luck man!
I like the way you presented your essay. You have made it very clear about your point of views. The solutions are very logic and practical.
Good job!
Emm, very well argued essay “from prediction to prevention”. You are quite clever to concede that there is no clear line between professionalism and ethics and “there is no way to totally prevent the abuse of research work”. However, to allow less people to use your work indeed can minimize the chances of abuse but also lessen the positive influence you work might have to the related areas.
Good luck to your finals:]
True, no way can totally prevent the unethical abuse of the research. I really agree on that. Good job. Your ideas are very straight forward and clear. Moreover, it is what a researcher can do, to predict using the professional knowledge.
Good Luck for your finals~~~
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