Ethical Issues in Social Science Research Involving Human Subjects

Abstract

     All research projects involving human subjects are mandated to adhere strictly to ethical practices in order to protect individual privacy and maintain confidentiality. This article provides practical guidance on using basic ethical principles in social science research involving human subjects. The presentation begins with a brief history of research ethics. It then looks at basic ethical principles and issues and how they are applied in the social science research process. Thereafter, the discussion moves on to identify the risks that can arise if social science research projects do not follow ethical guidelines, as well as presenting ways to protect privacy and maintain confidentiality, especially under different social and cultural contexts. The key ethical issues are then summarized in the article's conclusion.