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Ethics in practice

Ethics in practice

Ethics in practice’ is often referred to as situational ethics, in-situ ethics, situated ethics, micro-ethics, everyday ethics, ethically important moments or relational ethics. Where procedural ethics refers to the regulations, guidelines and approval processes engaged with prior to starting research, ethics in practice refers to the day-to-day dilemmas, ‘messy’ issues and ethically important ‘moments’ that arise throughout the research process, particularly but not exclusively, in qualitative research. These issues tend to emerge within the dynamics of research relationships and may be influenced by the context of the research setting. They may not have a clear right or wrong ‘textbook’ solution because they are often moral dilemmas that are specific to the situation and people involved. ‘Ethics in practice’ requires researchers to be reflexive and constantly mindful of the ethical dimensions of all interactions, decisions and possible implications.

Related Terms:
Procedural ethics,
Situated ethics,
Reflexivity,
Ethical mindfulness,
Qualitative research

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