Integrity · Responsibility · Human dignity
The Code sets forth the principles and ethical standards that guide sociologists’ scientific and professional responsibilities, conduct and commitment to society.
Purpose and application
The International Center for Social Research’s Code of Ethics establishes the principles and standards underlying sociologists’ professional responsibilities and conduct. These standards are intended to guide the examination of everyday scientific and professional activities and to support ethical decision-making in research, teaching, practice and service.
The Code is not exhaustive. Conduct that is not specifically addressed is not automatically ethical or unethical. Membership in ICSR entails a commitment to comply with the Code of Ethics and with the policies and procedures of the Center.
Violations may lead to the termination of membership. Review under the Ethical Standards applies when an activity is part of, or affects, a member’s professional functions, or when the activity is sociological in nature. Personal conduct without a connection to professional roles is outside the scope of the Code.
Preamble
The Preamble and General Principles are aspirational goals intended to guide sociologists toward the highest ideals of the discipline. They provide normative guidance for scientific and professional activities and help sociologists address ethical questions arising in their work.
The ethical foundation of sociological practice rests on a personal commitment to lifelong ethical conduct, the encouragement of responsible behaviour among students, supervisors, supervisees, employers, employees and colleagues, and consultation with others when ethical problems arise.
Sociologists may draw on personal values, culture and experience to supplement the Code, but they must not violate its principles or standards. They should continually strive to uphold the values embodied in the Code of Ethics.
General principles
These principles are aspirational and assist sociologists in determining the most ethical course of action in a given professional context.
Sociologists strive to maintain high levels of competence, recognise the limits of their expertise and undertake only those tasks for which they are qualified by education, training or experience. They pursue continuing education, use appropriate scientific and professional resources and consult other professionals when necessary.
Sociologists are honest, fair and respectful in research, teaching, practice and service. They conduct their professional affairs in ways that inspire trust and confidence and do not knowingly make statements that are false, misleading or deceptive.
Sociologists adhere to the highest scientific and professional standards and accept responsibility for their work. They respect colleagues, value public trust in sociology and do not allow collegiality to outweigh their shared responsibility to prevent or report unethical conduct.
Sociologists respect the rights, dignity and worth of every person. They seek to eliminate bias and reject discrimination based on age, gender, race, socioeconomic status or origin, ethnicity, nationality, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, health, political affiliation, marital, domestic or parental status, or any other basis protected by law.
Sociologists recognise their responsibility to the communities and societies in which they live and work. They apply and communicate their knowledge for the public good, advance the science of sociology and remain alert to situations that may cause harm to individuals, groups or communities.
In research, teaching, practice and service, sociologists are committed to professional conduct consistent with the protection and promotion of human rights. They strive to use their knowledge and skills to advance human rights worldwide.
Core ethical standards
Learn more about ICSR’s mission, research activities and commitment to open scientific communication.
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