Introduction
The relationship between ethics and research is one of the most important problems faced by anthropologists. It is important for anthropologists to be accountable for their data collection and ensure that research is valid. They also carry an ethical responsibility to maintain the confidentiality of their participants and not harm research subjects.
Acting as a Cultural Anthropologist, a crucial ethical issue will arise in our work. To learn about dilemmas and solutions, read the example Case Studies (https://www.americananthro.org/LearnAndTeach/Content.aspx?ItemNumber=12912) provided by the American Anthropological Association. Next, we will offer a workable social policy to help resolve our issue and educate colleagues. Our guidelines can be used to provide a sense of protection for anthropologists who may come under pressure to act in ways that contradict their professional standards and ethics.
Watch Video
Ethics in Anthropology
REVIEW: In this 3-minute video, Associate Professor Sienna Craig shares the privileges and responsibilities she carries as an Ethnographer/Anthropologist. Participants share difficult stories in confidence, and how should these stories be told to not only validate feelings expressed, but provide meaning. Following ethical guidelines are important to respect people’s privacy, intactness, and respect.
Read
Association of Social Anthropologists: Ethical dilemmas in professional practice in anthropology (https://www.theasa.org/networks/apply/ethics/dillemmas)
American Anthropological Association: Principles of Profession Responsibility (Current) (http://ethics.americananthro.org/category/statement/)
American Anthropological Association: Past AAA Statements on Ethics (https://www.americananthro.org/ParticipateAndAdvocate/Content.aspx?ItemNumber=1656)
Post: (15 points = 15 sentences minimum)
Questions to answer for Discussion:
You are acting as a Cultural Anthropologists conducting ethnographic research out in the field:
Identify what culture or cultural region you are studying; If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?
Describe an issue that you hope to gain a greater understanding of why it has occurred/is occurring in the culture you are studying; What would you study?
Explore a potential ethical dilemma or situation you may face; What is a potential problem where you need to exercise good judgment?
