3c- Scientific ethics

Question 1

Integrity and honesty are of key importance in science. What are some ways that these values can be upheld?

Answer 1

• unbiased presentation of results
• citing and providing references
• avoiding plagiarism

Question 2

What reduces the opportunity for dishonesty or the deliberate misuse of science?

Answer 2

The replication of experiments by others

Question 3

What are the 3 R’s used in animal studies which are used to avoid, reduce and minimise harm to the animals?

Answer 3

• replacement (animals should be replaced with alternatives when possible)
• reduction (the number of animals used in a study should be as few as possible)
• refinement (for the animals being used, the negative impact on them should be
  minimised)

Question 4

When clinical trials are carried out on humans what should be considered?

Answer 4

• informed consent (participants should be given details of the study and the opportunity to decline to take part)
• right to withdraw (participants should have the option to withdraw right up until the publication of the data)
• confidentiality (any data gathered should be anonymous)

Question 5

Any scientific research on living organisms should be justified and any risks should be assessed. What could these risks be?

Answer 5

• risk to and safety of- subject
  - species
  - individuals
  - investigators
  - the enviroment

Question 6

What is legislation?

Answer 6

Laws governing various aspects of science, it limits the potential misuse of studies and data

Question 7

What 4 things can influence scientific research?

Answer 7

• legislation
• regulation
• policy
• funding