HKIER

摘要

N.A.

Abstract

Freedom of inquiry is an inherent characteristic of a progressive society and a condition essential to intellectual pursuit. In an academic community, however, this freedom can be abused by inquirers who have not been inculcated with the ethics of research. Various ethical problems in research are discussed and the merits and undesirable effects of the covert participant observation method are reviewed for illustrative purposes.

Also competition amongst academics has become increasingly keen, instances of dishonesty have become more common. Several cases are cited to demonstrate the need to promote a sense of responsibility and ethics amongst researchers. The role of professional and research organizations in this respect is also discussed.