Being an expert
Taking part in society's various debate
fora requires that the researcher take on yet another roll, that
of the dedicated expert. Informing on research is important because
it gives people an insight into an activity they pay for, and gives
society a basis for different types of decisions. It is thus of
great importance that the researcher make clear which area he/she
is an expert in as well as which limitations exist, differentiate
between communicating his/her knowledge and formulating recommendations,
be honest regarding the existence of scientific pluralism, and avoid
making statements on areas in which there lie personal or professional
connections or interests.
Some common pitfalls
Some pitfalls for the researcher who speaks as an expert and/or in a popular scientific context are:
- Simplification of content may lead to distortion of findings or results
- His/her own contribution may be improperly emphasized
- Others' commendable contributions may be played down
- That the newsworthiness of some piece of information puts aside regular demands for prior peer-review.
Even if the researcher's own contribution is not to be exaggerated, many work-ethics (professional) codes contain appeals to actively work for one's own profession's standing in the scientific community and the public consciousness. Naturally, good judgment should be used. Besides professional loyalty, every researcher also has a loyalty toward science in general, as well as to the public. See Council of Europe's "Resolution on Scientific Communication".
Some guidelines that address the scientist's public roll from various perspectives are collected to the right. In general, the focus has shifted from improving the public's understanding of science to a multi-directional dialogue involving various stakeholders and the general public, see OECD's "Improving the dialogue with society on scientific issues".
Press ethic
Participation in mass media also falls under the press ethic. Among common publication rules is the requirement that news must be correct, one must exercise care in mentioning people's race, gender, nationality, occupation, political leaning or religious view if it has no bearing in the context and is disrespectful. See here further the "Code of Ethics" by the Society of Professional Journalists.
Last updated: 2010-01-03