research topics for ethical dilemma

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177 Interesting Ethics Paper Topics For Your Thesis

Ethics is a branch of study in philosophy that studies the concept of morality—what is good or bad, what is acceptable or unacceptable. It’s a philosophical theory that looks into moral rules and codes, principles, value systems, and other related concepts.

In academia, an ethical theory is used as one of the analytical tools in drawing analysis on several socio-cultural topics. Ethics can be applied to any particular subject matter in human society. And, on this, so many compelling, controversial or interesting ethical topics for academic essays and research papers have continued to spring up.

For students writing either an essay or a research paper on ethics, there are some relevant things to note about a good essay/research topic and writing a dissertation. They include:

Brainstorm on different topics Always go for a topic you are familiar with Choose a topic that has enough “flesh”. This is important as interesting topics will help you develop your essay/research Define your subject of interest. It makes the writing easier Properly researching for topics that serve contemporary social relevance Outlining is important for your research topic

What following some of these processes does for your essay/research/thesis is that it enriches your work and affords you the ability to communicate ideas clearly to readers. Here are some topics in ethics you can use for your essay/research.

Interesting Top Level Ethics Paper Topics for All Students

Writing a paper on ethics makes for an interesting writing experience because they usually require that the writer make a case for a particular subject based on whether the subject is right or wrong. There are so many ethical topics for papers. As a student, there are several ethical questions to debate, and you can choose to model your topic using some of these samples:

• Discuss what should be done concerning the rise in the ban on safe abortion
• Is the right to safe abortion practice unethical?
• Should abortion practice be promoted or championed for women in society?
• Are humans truly the root source for the issues of climate change and global warming the world is currently experiencing?
• Is it right to discriminate against the sexes?
• Is there a defining difference between sexes and gender?
• Is the practice of gender-based violence ethical?
• Should safe sexual practices be promoted?
• Sex: A Study of the growing practice of sexual relationships outside marriage
• Domestic Violence and how it can be combated
• Marijuana: The distinction to its health roles and health challenges it poses on individuals
• Is it unethical to promote capitalism and capitalist concepts?
• A Study of Racism and measures to ensure its decline
• Is it ethical to be a millionaire while there are so many less privileged people?
• A study of the ethical challenges that come with being in the academia
• Is war an ethical practice?
• Why LGBTQ+ people should not be discriminated against
• What are the ways workplace ethics can address issues of homophobia and internalized sexism?
• Is sexism in the workplace an ethical practice?
• The issue of microaggression and how it can be addressed
• A study of why workplaces need ethical conduct that monitors issues of workplace harassment
• Should salaries be uneven?
• How unethical are uneven salary payment structures?
• Should start-up tech companies hire more men for starters?
• How people can prioritize online privacy
• Is bridging online privacy unethical?
• Is the right to privacy unethical?

Engaging Ethical Dilemma Topics

As ethics deals with the debate on morals, one of the ways topics on ethics manifests is in the subject of dilemma. Topics like this focus on trying to find a suitable justification for one idea over another. There are several ethics topics to write about on this subject. Some of them include:

• Should students be allowed to bring their phones to school?
• Should parents police every social activity of their children?
• Should teachers use the cane on students as a disciplinary measure?
• Is flogging a good correctional practice?
• Should you leave your partner if they are of opposing political views?
• Should opposing religious beliefs be a deal-breaker in relationships?
• Should capitalism be abolished completely?
• Should a teacher maintain some level of friendship with their students?
• Is there any lingering importance of capitalism to society?
• Is revenge a viable option in a relationship if your partner cheats on you?
• Is sharing your experiences online the same as showing off a lifestyle?
• Should people from different religious beliefs and backgrounds partner?
• Is checking the DNA of your children important or necessary?
• Should parents enforce their children on behaviors to take up?
• Can discipline properly correct the attitudes of a child?
• Should eating junk foods be avoided completely?
• Should Halloween Trick or Treat and Costume be prioritized over Thanksgiving Dinners?
• Should children hold different religious beliefs from their parents while still young?
• Does strict parenting serve as the best way to raise a child?
• Is it important to reveal a secret to a friend or to keep one’s peace?
• Should cooking at home be prioritized over eating out?
• Is socialism a more suitable social practice than capitalism?
• Is accepting financial assistance from your parents acceptable after a certain age?
• Should school authorities seize phones brought to school?
• Is sending a child to a mixed school better than same-sex schools?
• Can afforestation alone save the world from global warming and the general climate change condition?
• Does being educated equate with being intelligent?

Ethical Issues to Write about in Your College Essay

One important thing to note about ethical topics is that they touch across so many different subjects. As a college student preparing to write an essay on ethics, rest assured as there are so many ethics ideas to write about. Here are some ethical topics to write about:

• Does Hiring female employees cover a company’s sexist motives?
• Should Actors be paid more than teachers?
• Taking medical decisions for a patient without their consent
• How ethical is the interference of the judiciary by the legislative arm of government?
• Is it ethical to fire someone due to their dress code?
• Is it unethical to wear colored hair to work?
• Is censorship ethical?
• Where does media censorship draw the line?
• Is it ethical for religious figureheads to meddle in state politics?
• Should gender be the reason why a person is restricted access to certain social privileges?
• Should sexuality be a discriminatory factor in society?
• Should companies and places of work provide counseling and therapy services for their employees?
• Can Children wear makeup on special occasions?
• Is it unethical to make medical decisions for a patient without any recognizable relatives?
• Does dress code need to affect how you are addressed?
• Should implementing ethics in sports be recommended?
• Is police brutality an ethical practice?
• The impacts of the excessive consumption of media content?
• Is the excessive use of social media healthy?
• How can companies ensure paid maternal and paternal leave?
• How can the inclusion of non-binary people in company policies promote growth?
• Is exclusion on the grounds of sexuality ethical?
• Is exclusion due to political beliefs unethical?
• How to promote ethical work culture?
• How can a company ensure that ethical practices are promoted in their companies?

Ethical Argument Topics to Write About

The best part about writing an ethical essay is that it is about anything that is of interest. An important aspect of the ethical argument topic is that it is supported with evidence. There are so many ethical topics to write about that fall within this category, and they include:

• Is the having of ethical codes and conducts important in an organization?
• Should people only implement progressive ideas to meet societal needs?
• Why LGBTQ+ should not be discriminated against
• Is it unethical to come to work late?
• Is government-sanctioned execution an ethical practice?
• Is the American incarceration system an effective corrective system?
• Is corrective rape an ethical practice?
• Should the issue of internalized homophobia be addressed?
• Internalized patriarchy and internalized homophobia, which one births one
• Should smoking weed be made legal?
• Why do the less privileged need free healthcare services
• A study of the effects of colonialism and internalized slavery
• Must aspiring journalists only focus on journalism courses?
• Addressing what it means to be of ethical behavior
• Should students be given a take-home assignment?
• Is there any academic relevance to assignments?
• Is access to free healthcare important?
• Does following the ethics code have abt social relevance?
• What role should developed countries play for developing countries?
• Is analysis writing an important aspect of literature?
• What role does ethics play in schools
• Should the address of global warming be continuous?
• Is there room for possible positive developments in global warming?
• Is the practice of ethics the same as moral teaching
• Should schools create sex education into their education curriculum

Comprehensive Ethics Debate Topics for Anyone

Just like the argumentative ethics topic, a debate topic on ethics centers majorly on choosing a part to argue for or against. This argument also is wrapped with evidence to support it. Your ethic topics can be on any subject. You can choose moral topics or any other topic with relevance. Here are some lists of ethical debate topics anyone can write on:

• Should the use of Contraceptives be promoted?
• Does legalizing weed make it any healthier?
• Should school children bring phones into school settings?
• The health impact of excessive engagement on social media
• Social relevance and importance of having ethical conducts
• Do companies with ethical conduct grow ahead
• Does ethics make a workplace safer?
• Are there importance on why sex education should be added to student’s
• Why safe abortion rights should be legalized
• Why the discrimination based on sexuality is harmful
• Why the practice of hedonism is important
• Sexual pleasure: Is it morally good?
• Is happiness dependent on an external factor?
• Why Institutionalized racism is the root cause of racism and racist beliefs
• Should the use of drugs be legalized?
• Is there any progressive importance to having a conservative view on things?
• Should social media apps allow explicit sexual content?
• Should social app builders have access to individual account
• Can homeschool match formal school training?
• Should the government ensure censorship measures?
• Is voting during elections the only form of patriotism?
• Is voting a patriotic display
• Are families allowed to have contradicting religious beliefs?
• Should state governments have any interference with the federal government?
• Should teenagers have access to contraceptives?

Good Ethical Research Papers for your Thesis or Dissertation

Writing either a thesis or a dissertation is a necessary part of academia. As a university student, you can’t graduate from only writing essays withiut writing your graduating thesis. There are so many areas your research paper about ethics can focus on. Here is a list of ethical topics:

• The contemporary relevance of applied ethics
• The psychological impacts of the proliferation of technology
• A Case Study of the legality of weed
• A multi-dimensional approach to the subject of marriage
• An ethical approach to the killing of animals
• A case study of the critical ethical debates on the use of contraception
• An analytical study of the relevance of ethical conduct in the workplace
• An investigation into the social relevance and importance of the beauty pageantry culture
• A critical study of normative ethics
• The role of applied ethics in the building of a healthy work culture
• An overview of the barriers associated with good leadership practice
• A Study of the importance of ethical practice in the healthcare system
• The study of ethics in business social responsibility
• An Overview on how Ethics promotes a saner working culture
• A look into how ethics promotes healthy social relationships
• The ethical relevance for Doctor and Patient Confidentiality
• Malpractice and Negligence an ethically challenging issue within the healthcare system
• The social and health relevance to access to free healthcare insurance
• A Study of the social relevance of ethics
• Violence: violence against animals is still abuse
• A look into strategic approaches to managing cyber crimes
• Ethic reasons for the separation of the church from politics
• Ethical Conduct: How Organizations with practicable ethics produces a toxic work environment
• A look into how Social media negatively impacts the IQ of a student
• The role of self-awareness and professional responsibility impacts social ethics in the workplace

Good Ethical Questions for Discussion

Primarily, ethics asks and answers the question of wrong or good. There are so many social issues that will make for good ethical questions for discussion. Here is a list of ethical questions for students to form insights from:

• How does ethics help to promote healthy workplace awareness?
• Does the practice of abortion negate morality?
• Is it right for a rape victim to be denied access to safe and free abortion?
• How do homophobia, racism, misogyny, and ableist practices hinder social growth?
• Should there be free access to condoms and contraceptive pills?
• Is free access to contraceptives better than the provision of menstrual materials
• How can racism be dismantled in an organization without consideration to institutionalized racism?
• How does the continuous promotion of capitalist concepts hinder societal progress?
• Does capitalism truly hinder social growth?
• Why should there be free access to contraceptive materials especially for women?
• What are the possible feasible solutions to the issue of climate change?
• Is it unethical not to share the wealth?
• Is engaging in warfare the right way to bring solutions?
• Does the use of makeup contradict the concept of beauty?
• Why are LGBTQ+ rights human rights?
• Is the legalization of cannabis ethical?
• Does the way you dress need to be the reason you are addressed a certain way?
• Are there moral problems that come with job automation?
• What can be done to combat the use of harmful substances
• Why should companies stop discriminating based on sex?
• What is the social relevance of providing workplace access?
• Why should parents and teachers stop flogging students?
• What is the distinction between discipline and strictness?
• Should religious beliefs be a dealbreaker in any relationship?

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376 Ethical Topics & Questions for Research Papers, Essays, Debates, & More

Are there white lies with good intentions? Should euthanasia be permitted by law?

Both of these questions are ethical dilemmas – situations with two or more conflicting moral choices. Ethical dilemmas involve conflicting values and moral obligations. To ease the understanding of such predicaments, you can approach ethics (or moral philosophy). This branch of philosophy suggests the concepts of good and bad and provides theories to determine moral behavior.

In this article, we will explore different ethical topics and theories applicable to them. You will also find practical tips on how to write an essay on the most complex ethical issue. Let’s start!

• 💥 TOP 12 Ethical Topics

📚 Normative Ethical Theories

• 🤔 How to Answer Ethical Dilemmas

📝 Ethical Research Paper Topics

🧑🏾‍⚕️ ethical topics in healthcare.

• 🌳 Environmental Ethical Issues

🖥️ Ethical Topics in Technology

⚡ ethical argument topics.

• 🏺 Philosophy Essay Topics
• 👩🏽‍🎓 Ethical Questions for Students

💬 Ethical Persuasive Speech Topics

🔦 ethical topics for presentation, ❓ ethical questions: faq, 🔗 references, 💥 top-12 ethical topics.

Here are some ethical topics that are popular for discussion in 2023:

• Privacy concerns in social media advertisement.
• Ethics of using artificial intelligence for marketing.
• Digital surveillance and personal data protection.
• Genetic engineering and ethical boundaries.
• Ethical issues in educational technology.
• Ethical challenges in healthcare data sharing.
• Environmental ethics and sustainable development.
• Ethical dilemmas of autonomous vehicles.
• Bioethics in medical research and experimentation.
• Ethical considerations in cybersecurity practices.
• Ethical concerns in the use of big data.
• Ethical implications of blockchain technology.

Normative ethical theories provide principles or guidelines for determining what is morally right or wrong. There are three broad (and competing) groups of ethical theories:

• Consequentialism believes that the consequences of an action determine its moral value.
• Deontology emphasizes adherence to moral rules and duties.
• Virtue ethics focuses on developing moral character and embodying virtuous traits.

🤔 How to Answer Ethical Dilemma Questions

Sometimes it seems that ethical dilemmas don’t have the right answers . But you can choose the best one for yourself if you establish a certain decision-making algorithm.

To answer ethical dilemma questions, follow these steps:

Below, you will see lists of ethical topics from different areas of human knowledge and activities. There are plenty of topics to write about, no matter what your focus of study is.

Ethical Topics in Business

• Corporate social responsibility in multinational companies.
• The role of business ethics in insurance companies .
• Ethical challenges in international supply chain management.
• Transparency and accountability in financial reporting.
• The role of business ethics in recruiting new employees using social media .
• Workplace diversity and inclusion ethics in the USA.
• Data privacy and security of employees in the workplace.
• Global warming and business ethics .
• Bribery and corruption in business transactions.
• Whistleblowing and ethical reporting mechanisms.
• Business ethics: Indian tea plantation workers .
• Ethical considerations in advertising and marketing practices.
• Fairtrade and ethical sourcing in global business.
• Business ethics of concealing facts in reports .
• Ethical leadership and decision-making in organizations.

Ethical Fashion Topics

• Sustainability and eco-friendly practices in fashion.
• Maintaining ethical standards in fashion .
• Ethical implications of fast fashion and overconsumption.
• Fair wages and labor rights in garment manufacturing.
• Supply chain as a crucial component of sustainability in the fashion industry .
• Animal cruelty-free and ethical sourcing of materials.
• Transparency in supply chains and traceability of products.
• Child labor in the fashion industry .
• Body image and ethical representation in fashion advertising.
• Recycling and upcycling in the fashion industry.
• Overseas sweatshops in the fashion industry .
• Cultural appropriation and respect for traditional designs.
• Ethical considerations in fashion collaborations and partnerships.
• Fashion Nova’s labor standards and transparency .
• Fashion industry’s impact on local communities and artisans.

Ethical Issues in Criminal Justice Topics

• Use of force and police brutality in the United States.
• The code of ethics in the Texas Department of Criminal Justice .
• Racial profiling and discriminatory practices in law enforcement.
• Ethical considerations in undercover operations and informant handling.
• Criminal justice: philosophies of corrections .
• Integrity and honesty in witness testimony and evidence presentation.
• Ethical challenges in the use of informants and confidential sources.
• Professional ethics in criminal justice: Singleton vs. Norris .
• Juvenile justice and ethical treatment of young offenders.
• Capital punishment and ethical implications of the death penalty.
• Criminal justice ethics: police corruption & drug sales .
• Ethical issues in plea bargaining and prosecutorial discretion.
• Ethical responsibilities of defense attorneys and client representation.
• The criminal justice service violations and ethical issues .
• Rehabilitation and ethical approaches to offender reintegration.

Media Ethics Paper Topics

• Accuracy and fact-checking in media reporting.
• Communication and social media ethics in the United Arab Emirates .
• Journalism ethics in the era of misinformation.
• Privacy concerns and ethical boundaries in media coverage.
• Media ethics: censorship of online material and behavior .
• Ethical considerations in photojournalism and image manipulation.
• Sensationalism and ethical dilemmas in news reporting.
• Media ethics: principle of privacy .
• Conflict of interest and transparency in media ownership.
• Diversity and representation in media storytelling and content.
• Mass media ethics in news coverage .
• Ethical challenges in social media and online journalism.
• Intellectual property and plagiarism in media production.
• Media censorship in the US .
• The role of media in promoting ethical discourse.

Ethics in healthcare ensures that medical professionals prioritize patient well-being, maintain confidentiality, and make decisions rooted in moral principles. Choose one of the topics below for a paper on ethics in medicine:

• Informed consent and patient autonomy in healthcare decisions.
• Healthcare ethics: physician-assisted death .
• Ethical considerations in end-of-life care and medical assistance.
• Allocation of scarce resources and equitable healthcare distribution.
• Abortion: an ethical dilemma .
• Confidentiality and privacy of patient health information.
• Ethical challenges in clinical research and human experimentation.
• Medical ethics: implications of a confidentiality breach .
• Ethics of physician-assisted suicide in healthcare.
• Organ transplantation and ethical considerations in donor selection.
• Obamacare and healthcare reform: ethical challenges .
• Ethical dilemmas in reproductive medicine and assisted reproduction .
• Cultural competence and ethical practices in healthcare delivery.
• Medical ethics: pet euthanasia .
• Ethical considerations in the use of emerging technologies in healthcare.

Ethical Topics in Nursing

• Ethical considerations of artificial intelligence in nursing care.
• Nursing ethics in patient advocacy .
• Understanding and managing confidentiality breaches in nursing.
• Ethical implications of assisted suicide for nursing practice.
• Hospice care and nursing ethics provisions .
• The moral dilemma of resource allocation in nursing.
• Addressing the tension between cultural sensitivity and medical guidelines.
• Euthanizing handicapped people: ethical and moral concerns .
• Discussing the impact of health inequities on nursing ethics.
• Ethical challenges in implementing telehealth in nursing.
• Circumcision: ethical dilemma and a nurse’s role in it .
• The moral landscape of mandatory vaccination for nurses.
• The nursing profession’s role in addressing medical errors.
• Ethic-of-care and ethic-of-justice in nursing leadership .
• Exploring the nurse’s role in patient advocacy.

Biomedical Ethics Topics

• Impact of gene editing on the future of healthcare.
• Cryonics and its ethical side .
• Ethical issues surrounding prenatal genetic testing.
• The role of bioethics in emerging infectious diseases.
• Embryo harvesting: ethical implications .
• Ethical challenges in stem cell research .
• Ethical considerations in human organ and tissue transplantation.
• Bioethics: the use of marijuana for medical purposes .
• Privacy and consent in the age of digital health data.
• Addressing animal rights in the context of biomedical research.
• Neuroimaging methods and arising ethical issues .
• The ethics of personalized medicine and genetic discrimination.
• Bioethics of advancements in neurotechnology and brain-computer interfaces.
• Cloning research ethics: ethical dispute and issues .
• The ethics of extending human lifespan through biotechnology.
• Surgery complications and bioethical decision-making .

🌳 Environmental Ethical Issues Topics

Environmental ethics guide individuals and organizations to act responsibly towards the planet. Such actions promote sustainable practices and biodiversity conservation and mitigate the adverse impacts of human activities on ecosystems. Here is a list of ethical environmental topics for research:

• Ethical responsibility for climate change for future generations.
• Sea dumping: legal and ethical issues .
• The role of environmental justice in urban planning.
• Ethical considerations in the use and disposal of plastics.
• The issue of global climate change from an ethical perspective .
• Implications of luxury fashion on the environment and ethics.
• The ethical responsibility of corporations in pollution.
• Land use and environmental ethics .
• The intersection of environmental ethics and indigenous rights.
• The ethical debate surrounding geoengineering as a climate solution.
• Environmental ethics: genetically modified organisms .
• The moral duty towards the preservation of biodiversity.
• Ethical considerations in the transition to renewable energy sources.
• Environmental ethics: intrinsic value of objects .
• The role of capitalism in environmental degradation.
• Commercial fishing: environmental ethics case study .

Animal Ethics Topics

• Ethical considerations in the treatment of companion animals.
• Nestlé animal testing and business ethics .
• The role of ethics in wildlife conservation efforts.
• The ethics of animal testing in scientific research.
• Ethical issues in animal research .
• The environmental and ethical impact of factory farming.
• The moral status of animals in ecological ethics.
• Is animal testing ethical ?
• Ethical approaches to invasive species management.
• Addressing the ethical implications of zoos and animal captivity.
• Ethics of using animals in medical research .
• The ethical debate around hunting as a conservation strategy.
• Ethics of the human-wildlife conflict resolution.
• Scientific experiments on animals from ethical perspectives .
• The moral side of animal cloning and bioengineering.

Food Ethics Topics

• Ethical concerns of genetically modified foods’ impact on the environment.
• Underweight products and deontological ethics .
• Food waste and its ethical concerns.
• The ethical debate on organic versus conventional farming.
• Ethical eating in daily food practices .
• The ethical and ecological effects of the meat industry.
• Balancing the demand for seafood with sustainable practices.
• Food safety issues in modern agriculture .
• The ethics of the global food supply chain in developing countries.
• Evaluation of the environmental ethics of palm oil production.
• Food ads ban for childhood obesity prevention .
• Food sovereignty and its significance in ecological ethics.
• The ethical implications of mono-cropping and biodiversity loss.
• Do marketers condition us to buy more junk food ?
• Ethical dilemmas in the use of pesticides in agriculture.

In the technology sphere , ethics can influence the development and use of innovations. Ethical approach ensures privacy protection and promotes inclusive technology solutions. Below, you will find several topic lists regarding ethics in technology:

Computer Science Ethics Topics

• The ethical concerns of artificial intelligence development.
• Electronic surveillance as an unethical practice .
• Outdoor privacy and surveillance in the digital age.
• The ethics of data collection and use by tech companies.
• Computer attacks and critical privacy threats .
• Implications of autonomous vehicles on societal ethics and safety.
• Ethical considerations in the development and use of deepfakes.
• Obscenity and computer ethics .
• Cybersecurity and ethical considerations in protecting user data.
• The ethics of algorithmic bias in machine learning.
• Computer ethics and privacy .
• Ethical challenges in the application of facial recognition technology.
• The responsibility of tech companies in spreading disinformation.
• Computer ethics and data protection .
• The ethics behind AI’s influence on job displacement and unemployment.

Aviation Ethics Topics

• Ethical challenges of automation in aviation safety.
• Aviation security and Al-Qaeda in Yemen .
• The balance between profitability and safety in commercial aviation.
• Ethical responsibilities of air traffic controllers.
• Safety risks in the modern aviation industry .
• Ethical considerations in the age of crewless aerial vehicles.
• Ethics of environmental sustainability in the aviation industry.
• Criminalization of aviation accidents .
• Ethical challenges in aviation maintenance practices.
• The moral dilemma of overbooking flights in the airline industry.
• Aviation security is over-reliant on technology .
• Ethical issues in the crisis management in aviation.
• The role of whistleblowers in promoting aviation safety.
• Sustainability in global aviation companies .
• Ethical implications of advanced surveillance technologies in aviation security.

Engineering Ethics Research Paper Topics

• Navigating the ethics of autonomous vehicles in society.
• Engineering professionalism and ethics .
• The role of ethics in sustainable engineering practices.
• Ethical considerations in the age of artificial intelligence engineering.
• Chernobyl disaster and engineering ethics .
• Conflicts between innovation and safety in civil engineering projects.
• The responsibility of engineers in managing climate change.
• Engineering ethics: patent rights and legal issues .
• Ethical challenges in the disclosure of engineering failures.
• The implications of biotechnology in bioengineering ethics.
• Machinery accident from an ethical standpoint .
• The role of ethics in software engineering and data privacy.
• Ethical considerations in the use of drones for engineering.
• Ethical manufacturing and technology trends .
• The ethical dilemmas in nuclear engineering.
• Engineering competence and the code of ethics .
• The ethics of using performance-enhancing drugs in sports.
• Circumcision: medical, ethical, and human rights issues .
• Should artificial intelligence be allowed to make life-or-death decisions?
• Do celebrities have a moral responsibility to be role models?
• Nightingale Pledge: medical ethics perspectives .
• The ethical debate on privacy versus security in the digital age.
• Are autonomous vehicles a boon or a bane for society?
• Hurricane Katrina: government ethical dilemmas .
• Should schools be allowed to use surveillance cameras on students?
• Is it ethical to use animals for scientific experimentation?
• Debate on circumcision: is it unethical and unlawful ?
• Is the use of gene editing in babies ethically acceptable?
• Is it ethically right to deny healthcare based on lifestyle choices?
• Samsung and child labor: business ethics case .
• The ethics of commercialization of organ transplants.
• Are social platforms ethically responsible for the spread of fake news?
• Obesity in Afro-Americans: ethics of intervention .
• Should governments be allowed to censor the internet for national security?
• Is it ethically right to use facial recognition technology in public?
• Fetal abnormality and the ethical dilemma of abortion .
• Is it ethical to prioritize economic growth over environmental sustainability?
• The ethical implications of giving minorities benefits in college admissions.
• Discrimination as an unethical business situation .
• Should companies have the right to track their employees’ online activities?
• The ethical debate on the death penalty as a justice form.
• Ethical dilemmas in business: KFC Company’s case .
• Is it ethically acceptable to use AI for predictive policing ?
• Should parents have the right to choose their child’s genetic traits?
• The relationship between economic rationality and ethical behaviour .
• Is it ethically right to implement social credit systems in society?

🏺 Philosophy Essay Topics: Ethics

• The role of cultural relativism in moral philosophy.
• Aristotle’s views on ethics .
• Ethics of the philosophy of existentialism.
• Kantian ethics in contemporary society.
• Kant’s deontological ethical theory .
• The use of virtue ethics in modern moral dilemmas.
• The influence of Stoicism on contemporary ethical thinking.
• Cicero’s views on citizenship and ethics .
• The ethical debate on utilitarianism versus deontology .
• The philosophical implications of moral objectivism versus moral subjectivism.
• Kant’s and Mill’s ethical philosophies .
• Ethical implications of free will in the era of AI.
• The philosophy of ethical egoism in capitalist societies.
• Aristotle’s ethical theory about euthanasia .
• The relevance of Nietzsche’s master-slave morality in modern ethics.
• The role of empathy in moral philosophy and ethics.
• Moral philosophical views: from Plato to Nussbaum .
• Ethical questions raised by determinism and indeterminism.
• The influence of Eastern philosophies on contemporary ethics.
• Aristotle and virtue ethics .
• The role of ethics in postmodern philosophy.
• The ethics of responsibility in existentialist thought.
• Theories of ethics: consequentialism and ethical relativism .
• Moral obligations towards future generations in environmental ethics.
• Individual ethics versus collective ethics.
• Philosophical views of ethics and morality .
• Aristotle’s concept of eudaimonia in modern society.
• The ethical questions raised by the philosophy of solipsism.
• Nonconsequential theory of ethics: case analysis .
• The ethics of hedonism in contemporary societies.

👩🏽‍🎓 List of Ethical Questions for Students

We have ensured that you can find the perfect ethical topic depending on the type of assignment you received. You can find debate, discussion, speech, and presentation topics here.

Ethical Debate Topics

• What are the ethical implications of capital punishment?
• Fetus with deformities: what is its moral status ?
• Should there be a moral limit to scientific discoveries?
• Is it ethical to use animals in circus performances?
• How do ethical theories view gay marriage ?
• Is the commercialization of human organs ethical?
• Is it ethical to use DNA from extinct species?
• Should parents be responsible for children’s crimes ?
• Should physicians be allowed to assist in patient suicide?
• Is it ethical to clone humans for medical purposes?
• Should parents spank their children ?
• Is the use of child labor ethical?
• Should religious beliefs influence public health policy?
• Why should you be moral when it is not in your best interest to do so ?
• Should gene editing in unborn children be allowed?
• Is it ethical to implement robotic soldiers in warfare?
• Should the United States abolish the death penalty ?
• Is euthanasia in terminally ill patients ethical?
• Should society implement universal basic income?
• Should the sale of human organs be legalized ?
• Is it ethical to design babies with specific traits?
• Is the censorship of artistic expression ethical?
• Should animals be used in medical research ?

Ethical Discussion Topics

• The ethical implications of social media on personal privacy.
• Should sex and violence be restricted on television ?
• How should we address ethical issues in global outsourcing?
• The ethical implications of data breaches and digital privacy.
• Should same-sex couples be allowed to adopt children ?
• The ethics of sustainable consumption of electronic devices.
• The ethics of wealth disparity in capitalist societies.
• Should we not abolish capital punishment ?
• The role of ethics in sustainable development and climate change.
• Ethical considerations of health disparities in society.
• Should smoking be illegal ?
• Ethical considerations of pandemic response and vaccine distribution.
• The role of ethics in animal rights and testing.
• Should parents avoid vaccinating their children ?
• Ethical considerations in the rise of the gig economy.
• The ethical implications of facial recognition technology in public.
• The right-to-die bill: why should all states pass it ?
• Ethical dilemmas in genetic testing and personalized medicine.
• The role of ethics in global migration and refugee crisis.
• Should cigarette manufacturers be prohibited ?
• The ethics of using AI in predictive policing.
• The ethical considerations of child labor in global supply chains.
• Should Kant be criticized for his absolutism ?
• Why should animal testing for cosmetics be globally banned?
• Corporate fraud as an ethical and leadership dilemma .
• The need for ethical considerations in AI development.
• Why the right to privacy should be prioritized in the digital age?
• Stem cell research ethics, pros and cons, and benefits .
• The importance of ethical farming practices for a sustainable future.
• Why must corporations take responsibility for their carbon emissions?
• Ethics of Obamacare and Trumpcare .
• The necessity of ethical treatment of workers in global supply chains.
• The importance of ethical considerations in medical research.
• Should Americans adopt a vegan lifestyle ?
• Why should technology companies be held accountable for data breaches?
• The need for ethical standards in reporting and journalism.
• Should we withhold life support ?
• Why should businesses prioritize corporate social responsibility?
• The importance of ethical considerations in education system reforms.
• Should children be tried as adults for murder ?
• Why should organ donation be encouraged as an ethical duty?
• The necessity of transparency in governmental decision-making.
• Ethical dilemma: should gene editing be performed on human embryos ?
• Why should we consider the ethical implications of autonomous weapons?
• The importance of sustainable consumption in the fight against climate change.
• Animal testing for cosmetic or medical purposes should not be allowed .
• Why should we prioritize ethics in the fashion industry?
• The necessity for implementing ethical norms in genetic engineering.
• Should human cloning be allowed ?
• Why should we consider ethical implications of wealth disparity ?
• The importance of ethically addressing refugee and migration crises.
• How much should we do for our fellow men ?
• The necessity of ethical governance in the use of facial recognition.
• Ethical concerns in using virtual reality for psychological treatment.
• Patient’s violence and the use of doctor force – medical ethics .
• The role of ethical dilemmas in shaping public policy.
• The ethical issues and carbon footprint of global supply chains.
• British Petroleum: corruption involving ethics .
• The ethical implications of data breaches in technology companies.
• The ethical landscape of genetic engineering.
• Domino’s Pizza: ethical dilemma case .
• Ethical considerations in the use of personal data for political microtargeting.
• Evaluating the ethical considerations in predictive policing.
• The code of ethics of the American Nurses Association .
• The role of ethics in responsible journalism and fake news.
• The ethics of personalized pricing based on consumer data analysis.
• Apple Corporation: ethical and social responsibility .
• Ethical implications of intensive livestock farming on animal welfare.
• Visualizing the environmental impact of single-use plastics in marine ecosystems.
• Business ethics and dilemmas in the film Michael Clayton .
• Ethical considerations in access to healthcare for marginalized populations.
• Ethical dimensions of cultural appropriation.
• International legal and ethical issues in business .
• The role of ethics in organ donation and transplantation.
• The ethical implications of economic disparity in capitalist societies.
• Chevron Company: ethical analysis .
• Ethical considerations in journalism and media ethics.
• The role of ethics in sustainable development and consumption.
• College sport: ethical issues .
• Visualizing the environmental impact of fast fashion through data.
• Ethical dilemmas in pharmaceutical industry marketing strategies.
• Ethical dilemmas in Shakespeare’s Hamlet .
• The ethical challenges in the education reform policies.

What Are Ethical Questions?

Ethical questions are inquiries that explore moral issues, challenging us to consider right and wrong, good and bad. They often deal with dilemmas where a decision about the appropriate behavior or action must be made. Ethical questions are relevant in many fields, such as business, healthcare, politics, science, and education.

What Are the Seven Ethical Principles?

The seven ethical principles are common guidelines in ethical decision-making across various fields:

• Autonomy – respect for individuals’ right to decide for themselves.
• Beneficence – obligation to promote well-being and good.
• Non-maleficence – duty to cause no harm.
• Justice – ensuring fairness and equitable distribution of resources.
• Fidelity – maintaining loyalty and keeping promises.
• Veracity – commitment to truthfulness and honesty.
• Confidentiality – respecting the privacy of others.

What Are Some Ethical Topics?

Ethical topics cover a broad spectrum of issues across multiple domains. In healthcare, topics like euthanasia, patient confidentiality, and genetic engineering are common. In business, we discuss corporate social responsibility, whistleblowing, and fair trade. Environmental ethics covers animal rights, sustainability, and climate change. In technology, topics like data privacy, AI ethics, and cybersecurity are popular.

• Ethics Awareness: UC San Diego  
• Solving Ethical Dilemmas; Ethics in Law Enforcement  
• A Framework for Ethical Decision Making – Markkula Center for Applied Ethics  
• 5 Ethical Issues in Technology to Watch for in 2023 | CompTIA    
• The Very Best 127 Philosophical Questions 2023  
• Identifying Ethical Issues; Exploring Business  
• How to Write About an Ethical Dilemma – Synonym  
• The RIGHT Decision Method: An approach for solving ethical dilemmas | Institute on Community Integration Publications  
• A Brief Guide to Writing the Philosophy Paper | Harvard College Writing Center  
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Home — Blog — Topic Ideas — 200 Ethical Topics & Questions to Debate in Essay

200 Ethical Topics & Questions to Debate in Essay

Ethical topics and questions are essential for stimulating thoughtful discussions and deepening our understanding of complex moral landscapes. Ethics, the study of what is right and wrong, underpins many aspects of human life and societal functioning. Whether you're crafting an essay or preparing for a debate, delving into ethical issues allows you to explore various perspectives and develop critical thinking skills.

Ethical issues encompass a wide range of dilemmas and conflicts where individuals or societies must choose between competing moral principles. Understanding what are ethical issues involves recognizing situations that challenge our values, behaviors, and decisions. This article provides a thorough guide to ethical topics, offering insights into current ethical issues, and presenting a detailed list of questions and topics to inspire your writing and debates.

Ethical Issues Definition

Ethical issues refer to situations where a decision, action, or policy conflicts with ethical principles or societal norms. These dilemmas often involve a choice between competing values or interests, such as fairness vs. efficiency, privacy vs. security, or individual rights vs. collective good. Ethical issues arise in various fields, including medicine, business, technology, and the environment. They challenge individuals and organizations to consider the moral implications of their actions and to seek solutions that align with ethical standards. Understanding ethical issues requires an analysis of both the potential benefits and the moral costs associated with different courses of action.

⭐ Top 10 Ethical Topics [2024]

• Climate Change Responsibility
• Data Privacy in the Digital Age
• Genetic Engineering
• Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide
• Corporate Social Responsibility
• AI and Automation
• Animal Rights
• Freedom of Speech vs. Hate Speech
• Healthcare Accessibility
• Human Rights in the Age of Globalization

Ethics Essay Writing Guide

Writing an ethics essay involves more than just presenting facts; it requires a thoughtful analysis of moral principles and their application to real-world scenarios. Understanding ethical topics and what constitutes ethical issues is essential for crafting a compelling essay. Here’s a guide to help you address current ethical issues effectively:

• Choose a Clear Topic: Select an ethical issue that is both interesting and relevant. Understanding the definition of ethical issues will help you narrow down your choices.
• Research Thoroughly: Gather information from credible sources to support your arguments. Knowing what ethical issues are and how they are defined can provide a solid foundation for your research.
• Present Multiple Perspectives: Show an understanding of different viewpoints on the issue. This will demonstrate your grasp of the complexity of current ethical issues.
• Use Real-world Examples: Illustrate your points with concrete examples. This not only strengthens your arguments but also helps to explain ethical topics in a relatable way.
• Structure Your Essay: Organize your essay with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. A well-structured essay makes it easier to present your analysis of ethical issues.
• Provide a Balanced Argument: Weigh the pros and cons to offer a well-rounded discussion. Addressing various aspects of current ethical issues will make your essay more comprehensive.
• Conclude Thoughtfully: Summarize your findings and reflect on the broader implications of the issue. This is where you can discuss the impact of ethical issues on society and future considerations.

By following this guide, you will be able to write an ethics essay that not only presents facts but also offers a deep and nuanced analysis of ethical topics.

Selecting the Right Research Topic in Ethics

Choosing the right research topic in ethics can be challenging, but it is crucial for writing an engaging and insightful essay. Here are some tips:

• Relevance: Ensure the topic is relevant to current societal issues.
• Interest: Pick a topic that genuinely interests you.
• Scope: Choose a topic with enough scope for research and debate.
• Complexity: Aim for a topic that is complex enough to allow for in-depth analysis.
• Availability of Sources: Make sure there are enough resources available to support your research.

What Style Should an Ethics Essay Be Written In?

When writing an ethics essay, it is essential to adopt a formal and objective style. Clarity and conciseness are paramount, as the essay should avoid unnecessary jargon and overly complex sentences that might obscure the main points. Maintaining objectivity is crucial; presenting arguments without bias ensures that the discussion remains balanced and fair. Proper citations are vital to give credit to sources and uphold academic integrity.

Engaging the reader through a logical flow of ideas is important, as it helps sustain interest and facilitates a better understanding of the ethical topics being discussed. Additionally, the essay should be persuasive, making compelling arguments supported by evidence to effectively convey the analysis of moral issues. By following these guidelines, the essay will not only be informative but also impactful in its examination of ethical dilemmas.

List of Current Ethical Issues

• The impact of social media on privacy.
• Ethical considerations in genetic cloning.
• Balancing national security with individual rights.
• Privacy concerns in the digital age.
• The ethics of biohacking.
• Ethical considerations in space exploration.
• The ethics of surveillance and data collection by governments and corporations.
• Ethical issues in the use of facial recognition technology.
• The ethical implications of autonomous vehicles.
• The morality of animal testing in scientific research.
• Ethical concerns in the gig economy.
• The impact of climate change on ethical business practices.
• The ethics of consumer data usage by companies.
• Ethical dilemmas in end-of-life care and assisted suicide.
• The role of ethics in the development of renewable energy sources.

Ethical Issues in Psychology

• Confidentiality vs. duty to warn in therapy.
• Ethical dilemmas in psychological research.
• The use of placebo in psychological treatment.
• Ethical issues in the treatment of vulnerable populations.
• The ethics of involuntary commitment and treatment.
• Dual relationships and conflicts of interest in therapy.
• The use of deception in psychological experiments.
• The ethics of cognitive enhancement drugs.
• Ethical considerations in online therapy and telepsychology.
• Cultural competence and ethical practice in psychology.
• The ethics of forensic psychology and assessment.
• The impact of social media on mental health and ethical practice.
• The use of emerging technologies in psychological treatment.
• Ethical issues in the diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders.
• The role of ethics in psychological testing and assessment.

Ethical Debate Topics

• Is capital punishment morally justified?
• Should organ donation be mandatory?
• The ethics of artificial intelligence in warfare.
• Is euthanasia ethically permissible?
• Should human cloning be allowed?
• The morality of animal rights vs. human benefit.
• Is it ethical to use animals for entertainment?
• Should there be limits on free speech?
• The ethics of genetic modification in humans.
• Is it ethical to have mandatory vaccinations?
• The morality of government surveillance programs.
• Should assisted reproductive technologies be regulated?
• The ethics of using performance-enhancing drugs in sports.
• Should healthcare be considered a human right?
• The ethical implications of wealth inequality and redistribution.

Medical Ethics Topics

• Ariel Case Study: a Comprehensive Analysis
• The Case for and Against Daylight Saving Time
• Technological Advancements in Medical, Educational & Other Fields
• The Language of Medicine
• Medical Ethics: Beneficence and Non-maleficence
• Overview of What Sonography is
• The Use of Steroids and HGH in Sports
• Media and The Scientific Community Treat People Like Tools
• Informative Speech for Organ Donation
• Medicine in Our World
• The Origin of Medical Terminology
• Preserving Sight: My Journey to Becoming an Optometrist
• Case of Dr. Eric Poehlman's Ethical Violation
• Should The NHS Treat Patients with Self-Inflicted Illnesses
• My Education as a Medical Technologist

Ethics Essay Topics on Business

• Ethics Report on Panasonic Corporation
• Case Study on The ACS Code of Morals
• Differences in Business Ethics Among East Asian Countries
• Business Ethics in Sports
• Business Ethics in Different Countries, and Its Importance
• Selfless Service and Its Impact on Social Change
• Challenges in Doing Business Across The Border
• The Importance of Ethics in Advertising
• Ethical Issues that Businesses Face
• Profitability of Business Ethics
• The Law and Morality in Business
• How Ethnic Variances Effect Worldwide Business
• The Ethical Practices in The Business Sector in the Modern Economy
• Key Responsibilities and Code of Ethics in Engineering Profession
• Analysis of The Code of Ethics in Walmart

Ethics Essay Topics on Environment

• Understanding The Importance of Keeping Animals Safe
• The Importance of Treating Animals with Respect
• CWU and The Issue of Chimpanzee Captivity
• The Process of Suicidal Reproduction in the Animal World
• Analysis of The Egg Industry to Understand The Causes of The High Prices in Eggs
• The Dangers of Zoos
• Importance for Animals to Be Free from Harm by Humans
• Should Animals Be Killed for The Benefit of Humans
• Reasons Why Genetic Engineering Should Be Banned
• What I Learned in Ethics Class: Environmental Ethics
• Nanotechnology and Environment
• Review of The Environmental Protection Act
• How The Idea of Preservation of Nature Can Benefit from Environmental Ethics
• The Relation and Controversy Between American Diet and Environmental Ethics
• Green Technology

Work Ethics Essay Topics

• The impact of workplace surveillance on employee privacy.
• Ethical considerations in remote work.
• Discrimination in the workplace.
• An Examination of Addiction to Work in The Protestant Work Ethic
• The Work Ethic of The Millennials
• My Understanding of The Proper Environment in the Workplace
• Social Responsibility & Ethics Management Program in Business
• The Maternity Benefits Act, 1961
• The Issue of Stealing in The Workplace
• Chinese Work Management and Business Identity
• Ethical Issues of Using Social Media at the Workplace
• The Teleological Ethical Theories
• Learning Journal on Ethical Conflicts, Environmental Issues, and Social Responsibilities
• Social Media at Workplace: Ethics and Influence
• Ethical Issue of Employees Stealing and Whistleblowing

Ethics Essay Topics on Philosophy

• A Critical Analysis of Ethical Dilemmas in Education and Beyond
• Overview of What an Ethical Dilemma is
• The Implications of Exculpatory Language
• Ethical Dilemmas in End-of-life Decision Making
• What I Learned in Ethics Class: Integrating Ethics in Aviation
• Doing What is Right is not Always Popular: Philosophy of Ethics
• An Analysis of Public Trust and Corporate Ethics
• Ethical Concerns of Beauty Pageants
• Simone De Beauvoir’s Contribution to Philosophy and Ethics
• The Impact on Decision-making and Life Choices
• Importance and Improvement of Personal Ethics
• Personal Ethics and Integrity in Our Life
• Analysis of The Philosophical Concept of Virtue Ethics
• Understanding Moral Action
• How to Become a Gentleman
• A Call for Emphasis on Private Morality and Virtue Teaching
• A Positive Spin on Ethical Marketing in The Gambling Industry
• An Overview of The Ethical Dilemma in a Personal Case
• Bioethical Principles and Professional Responsibilities
• Ethical Considerations in Counseling Adolescents
• Ethical Dilemma in College Life
• Ethical Theories: Deontology and Utilitarianism
• Issues of Fraud, Ethics, and Regulation in Healthcare
• Navigating Ethical Dimensions in Education
• The Ethical Landscape of Advanced Technology
• Research Paper on The Ethical Issue of Publishing The Pentagon Papers
• The Trolley Problem: an Ethical Dilemma
• Analysis of "To The Bitter End" Case Study
• Ethical Theories: Virtue and Utilitarian Ethics
• Feminist Ethics: Deconstructing Gender and Morality
• Is Deadpool a Hero Research Paper
• My Moral and Ethical Stance
• The Concept of Ethics and The Pursuit of Happiness
• The Ethics of Graphic Photojournalism
• The Quintessence of Justice: a Critical Evaluation of Juror 11's Role
• The Wolf of Wall Street: Ethics of Greed
• The Importance of Ethics in Our Daily Life
• Analysis of The Envy Emotion and My Emotional Norms
• The Topic of Animal Rights in Relation to The Virtue Theory

Ethics Essay Topics on Science

• The Cause of Cancer as Illustrated in a Bioethics Study
• Bioethical Issues Related to Genetic Engineering
• Ethical Issues in Stem Cell Research
• The Role of Ethics Committees in Biomedical Research
• The Legal and Bioethical Aspects of Personalised Medicine Based on Genetic Composition
• The Ethics of Clinical Trials: Ensuring Informed Consent and Patient Safety
• Ethical Challenges in Neuroethics: Brain Privacy and Cognitive Liberty
• Gene Therapy: Ethical Dilemmas and Social Implications
• Overview of Bioethics The Trigger of Contentious Moral Topics
• The Progression of Bioethics and Its Importance
• The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Medical Ethics
• The Drawbacks of Free Healthcare: Economic, Quality, and Access Issues
• Bioethical Issues in My Sister’s Keeper: Having Your Autonomy Taken to Save Your Sibling
• The Ethics of Biotechnology in Agriculture: GMOs and Food Safety
• Ethical Considerations in Organ Donation and Transplantation

List of Ethical Questions for Students

Exploring ethical topics is crucial for students to develop critical thinking and moral reasoning. Here is a comprehensive list of ethical questions for students to discuss and debate. These topics cover a wide range of issues, encouraging thoughtful discussion and deeper understanding.

Good Ethical Questions for Discussion

• Is it ethical to eat meat?
• Should parents have the right to genetically modify their children?
• Is it ever acceptable to lie?
• Should schools monitor students' social media activity?
• Is it ethical to use animals in scientific research?
• Should companies be allowed to patent human genes?
• Is it right to impose cultural values on others?
• Should the government regulate internet content?
• Is it ethical to have designer babies?
• Should wealthy countries help poorer nations?
• Is it ethical to keep animals in zoos?
• Should there be limits to freedom of speech?
• Is it right to use artificial intelligence in decision-making?
• Should we prioritize privacy over security?
• Is it ethical to manipulate emotions through advertising?

Moral Questions to Debate

• Is genetic modification in humans ethical?
• Should vaccinations be mandatory?
• Is government surveillance justified?
• Is it ethical to use performance-enhancing drugs in sports?
• Is wealth inequality morally acceptable?
• Should education be free for everyone?
• Is it ethical to allow autonomous robots to make life-and-death decisions?

Ethical topics and questions are a rich field for exploration and discussion. Examining these issues, we can better understand the moral principles that guide our actions and decisions. Whether you're writing an essay or preparing for a debate, this comprehensive list of ethical topics and questions will help you engage with complex moral dilemmas and develop your critical thinking skills.

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Ethics Research Paper Topics

This page provides a comprehensive list of ethics research paper topics , aiming to guide students through the intricate labyrinth of moral and ethical discussions. Curated meticulously by iResearchNet, the guide not only presents diverse topics across various ethical domains but also imparts invaluable insights on choosing the ideal topic and formulating a compelling research paper. For both newcomers and those well-acquainted with ethics research, this resource stands as a beacon, illuminating the path to academic success.

100 Ethics Research Paper Topics

The vast field of ethics, deeply intertwined with the human experience, requires continual exploration and understanding. For students embarking on academic pursuits, identifying the right ethics research paper topics becomes paramount. Not only does it set the stage for meaningful inquiry, but it also determines the depth and breadth of the discourse. The study of ethics challenges individuals to dissect, question, and offer insights into the moral compass that guides societies. This extensive list has been curated to provide students with a wide array of ethics research paper topics, covering various domains, each reflecting the multi-faceted nature of ethical discussions.

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1. Medical Ethics :

• Euthanasia & Assisted Suicide
• Genetic Engineering
• Reproductive Rights
• Medical Data Privacy
• Informed Consent
• Healthcare Resource Allocation
• Research on Vulnerable Groups
• Organ Donation Ethics
• Mental Health Ethics
• Medical Tourism

2. Business Ethics :

• Corporate Social Responsibility
• Whistleblowing
• Employee Rights
• Ethical Advertising
• Insider Trading
• Sustainability in Business
• Supply Chain Ethics
• Consumer Rights
• Business in Conflict Zones
• Cultural Appropriation in Business

3. Environmental Ethics :

• Conservation vs. Industrialization
• Animal Rights & Welfare
• Climate Change Morality
• Genetic Modification of Crops
• Resource Depletion
• Ecotourism Ethics
• Pollution & Accountability
• Water Rights & Access
• Biodiversity Ethics
• Ethical Consumerism

4. Technological Ethics :

• AI & Machine Learning Ethics
• Digital Privacy
• Cybersecurity Ethics
• Bioengineering Ethics
• Technology & Mental Health
• Digital Addiction
• Tech Industry Labor Ethics
• Automation & Job Ethics
• Virtual Reality Morality
• Technology in Education Ethics

5. Digital & Media Ethics :

• Misinformation & Fake News
• Digital Censorship & Freedom of Speech
• Representation in Media
• Digital Influencers & Ethics
• Intellectual Property in the Digital Age
• Ethical Journalism in Conflict Zones
• Social Media & Privacy Concerns
• Ethics of Digital Activism
• Gaming Industry Ethics
• Media Consumption & Mental Health

6. Social & Cultural Ethics :

• Gender Equality & Women’s Rights
• Racism & Discrimination
• LGBTQ+ Rights & Representation
• Immigration & Refugee Ethics
• Multiculturalism & Assimilation
• Religious Tolerance & Freedom
• Indigenous Rights & Representation
• Social Welfare System Ethics
• Income Inequality & Wealth Distribution
• Child Rights & Protection

7. Educational Ethics :

• Academic Integrity & Plagiarism
• Equal Access to Quality Education
• Standardized Testing & Ethics
• Educator-Student Relationship Boundaries
• Curriculum Bias & Representation
• Special Needs Education Ethics
• Tuition Fees & Student Debt
• Technology in Classroom Ethics
• Bilingual Education Ethics
• Ethics of School Discipline & Punishments

8. Political & Governance Ethics :

• Campaign Financing & Lobbying
• Voter Rights & Suppression
• Ethical Governance & Corruption
• Surveillance & Citizen Privacy
• International Diplomacy Ethics
• War, Peacekeeping & Military Ethics
• Human Rights & Global Governance
• Ethics of Sanctions & Economic Pressure
• Political Propaganda & Manipulation
• Whistleblowing in Government

9. Sports & Recreation Ethics :

• Doping & Performance Enhancing Drugs
• Athlete Welfare & Rights
• Gender & Sports: Equal Representation
• Commercialization & Sport Sponsorships
• eSports & Digital Gaming Ethics
• Youth Sports & Pressure
• Olympic Games & Politics
• Fan Behavior & Hooliganism
• Sports Journalism & Representation
• Ethics of Sports Betting & Gambling

10. Art & Aesthetics Ethics :

• Art Censorship & Freedom of Expression
• Representation & Diversity in Art
• Art & Cultural Appropriation
• Ethics of Art Restoration & Preservation
• Digital Art & Intellectual Property
• Ethics of Art Criticism
• Art in Public Spaces & Community
• Funding & Sponsorship in the Arts
• Technology & Art Fusion Ethics
• Art as Activism & Political Expression

Within the broad spectrum of ethics research paper topics, lie endless opportunities to engage with pressing questions, challenge established norms, and contribute to the evolving ethical paradigms of the 21st century. As society grapples with new technologies, shifting global dynamics, and unprecedented challenges, the importance of ethical exploration cannot be overstated. We invite every student to dive deep into this list, to find their niche within the vast expanse of ethical topics. By selecting the right ethics research paper topics, they can position themselves at the forefront of dialogues that have the power to reshape our world’s moral landscape.

Browse More Ethics Research Paper Topics:

• Applied Ethics
• Care Ethics
• Comparative Ethics
• Descriptive Ethics
• Evolutionary Ethics
• Feminist Ethics
• Meta-Ethics
• Normative Ethics
• Professional Ethics
• Religious Ethics

The Range of Ethics Research Paper Topics

Introduction to Ethics as a Discipline At the heart of human existence lies the perennial question: What ought we to do? Ethics, a sophisticated branch of philosophy, is dedicated to answering this question, probing deep into the realms of right and wrong, duty, and responsibility. As societies, technologies, and cultures evolve, the exploration of ethical tenets has expanded, encompassing various domains and scenarios, from everyday life choices to complex geopolitical decisions.

Historical Context of Ethics Tracing back to antiquity, the ethical compass was set by seminal thinkers. Ancient Greeks, through the philosophical musings of Socrates, Plato, and Aristotle, dissected concepts of virtue, the purpose of life, and societal duties. Concurrently, in the East, doctrines of Confucianism, Buddhism, and Hinduism were offering profound insights into ethical living, highlighting righteousness, duty, and the cosmic order. These foundational thoughts provided the architecture for successive generations to build upon, creating a rich tapestry of ethical frameworks.

Evolution of Ethical Considerations The journey from medieval to modern times witnessed a fascinating evolution of ethics. The Middle Ages were dominated by religious ethics, where moral codes were often derived from religious scriptures and divine interventions. Philosophers like Thomas Aquinas sought to reconcile reason with faith. The Renaissance and Enlightenment periods championed human reason, leading to secular ethical theories. Thinkers like Immanuel Kant, Jeremy Bentham, and John Stuart Mill introduced deontological and utilitarian perspectives, respectively. Fast-forwarding to the contemporary era, we’re in an age that grapples with challenges birthed by rapid technological advancements, sociopolitical changes, and a globalized world, each demanding nuanced ethical considerations.

Diverse Areas of Study within Ethics Ethics now sprawls across various disciplines, each reflecting the pressing concerns of the age. Medical ethics, for instance, navigates the intricate maze of patient rights, bioengineering, and health equity. Business ethics is centered around corporate governance, sustainability, consumer rights, and corporate social responsibilities. Environmental ethics is a testimony to our growing realization of Earth’s fragility, prompting discourses on conservation, animal rights, and sustainable development. These subdivisions elucidate the vastness and depth of the ethical universe, emphasizing its applicability in multifarious sectors.

Relevance in Today’s Interconnected World Today, the tapestry of global interconnectivity has heightened the importance of ethical considerations. Information dissemination is rapid; societies are interwoven in complex ways, where a decision in one corner of the world can reverberate globally. This hyperconnected ecosystem underscores the pivotal role of ethics, be it in global trade, international diplomacy, technological advancements, or individual behavioral patterns.

Case Studies Illustrating Depth and Breadth of Ethical Inquiries :

• The Trolley Problem : Delving beyond its elementary rendition, it spawns intricate debates on individual vs. collective good, direct vs. indirect harm, and the essence of moral decisions.
• Facebook-Cambridge Analytica Scandal : This case becomes a lens to inspect broader issues: the sanctity of individual data, the ethics of persuasion, and the overarching responsibilities of digital behemoths.
• Fast Fashion Dilemmas : Beyond the immediate issues of labor rights and sustainability, it beckons discussions on consumerism, cultural commodification, and the ethics of globalization.
• Gene Editing and CRISPR : A groundbreaking technology that calls into question the ethics of playing ‘God’, altering genetic codes, potential misuse, and the overarching implications for humanity’s evolution.
• Refugee Crisis : An intersection of geopolitical maneuvers, human rights, nationalism vs. globalism, and the ethical responsibilities of nations and individuals.

The Global Impact of Ethics Research Ethical research isn’t a mere academic endeavor; its ramifications ripple through the global fabric. Policies, laws, international treaties, corporate strategies, and even grassroots movements are often anchored in rigorous ethical discussions. For instance, international climate accords are informed by environmental ethics, dictating the shared responsibilities of nations. Similarly, discussions on data privacy regulations are imbued with digital ethics, reflecting the collective consensus on individual rights in the digital age.

Conclusion Stressed on the Limitless Possibilities of Research in Ethics Ethics, with its expansive history and multifaceted nature, continues to be a beacon, illuminating the intricacies of human actions and intentions. The extensive array of “ethics research paper topics” is testament to its sprawling scope, touching upon nearly every facet of human existence. As we stand at the precipice of monumental global changes, the canvas of ethical research beckons scholars, students, and thinkers to engage, question, and sculpt the moral landscape of the future. With every ethical inquiry, we edge closer to understanding the complexities of the human psyche, societal constructs, and the broader universe, unveiling limitless possibilities.

How to Choose Ethics Research Paper Topics

Embarking on a scholarly voyage begins with a crucial decision – choosing the right topic. In the vast domain of academic research, the topic serves as the foundation stone, shaping the trajectory of the entire study. Especially when navigating the intricate waters of “ethics research paper topics,” this choice is paramount. A judiciously chosen topic can serve as a mirror, reflecting societal concerns, personal beliefs, and scholarly gaps, ensuring the research not only informs but also inspires.

• Align with Personal Interest : Your passion becomes the heartbeat of your research. When selecting among various ethics research paper topics, gravitate towards those that genuinely intrigue you. An authentic interest will sustain your enthusiasm throughout the research process, making challenges more surmountable and discoveries more exhilarating. Remember, when you’re invested emotionally and intellectually, your writing exudes a palpable fervor that resonates with readers.
• Consider Societal Relevance : The rapidly changing societal landscape constantly births new ethical dilemmas. Aim for topics that are at the forefront of current debates, as they will be both timely and impactful. Such topics will also allow you to contribute constructively to real-world discussions, ensuring your research isn’t just an academic exercise but a tool for societal introspection.
• Assess Available Resources : Before finalizing a topic, gauge the availability of research materials. Whether it’s online databases, libraries, or expert interviews, a robust collection of resources will be instrumental. A topic with abundant scholarly materials offers a richer backdrop against which you can position your arguments.
• Seek Feedback : Engage in preliminary discussions about potential topics with peers, mentors, or professionals in the ethics arena. Their feedback can offer fresh perspectives, highlight overlooked challenges, and even introduce you to invaluable resources. This collaborative approach can fine-tune your choice, ensuring it’s well-rounded and robust.
• Evaluate Scope : In the vast ocean of ethics research paper topics, it’s easy to either drown in overly broad topics or find oneself restricted in extremely niche areas. A well-defined scope ensures your research remains focused yet comprehensive. Consider drafting preliminary research questions to test the waters; if you find them too vast or too constrained, it might be time to recalibrate.
• Anticipate Challenges : Each topic brings its unique set of challenges. From counterarguments and controversial perspectives to gaps in existing literature, anticipating these hurdles equips you for a smoother research journey. Strategizing in advance can help mitigate potential roadblocks, ensuring your research remains on track.
• Cross-disciplinary Potential : Some of the most enriching ethics research paper topics are those that straddle multiple disciplines. Consider topics that interweave ethics with fields like technology, biology, sociology, or law. Such intersections can offer multifaceted insights, elevate your research’s depth, and cater to a more diverse readership.
• Originality Counts : While established topics offer the comfort of abundant resources, there’s undeniable merit in exploring uncharted territories. Whether it’s introducing a novel perspective to a known issue or probing a relatively untouched area, originality can significantly elevate your research’s value.
• Ethical Implications : Being in the realm of ethics, it’s paramount to introspect on the moral ramifications of your chosen topic. Will it spark meaningful discourse? Will it challenge established beliefs or reinforce them? Ensure that your topic is not just analytically sound but also ethically potent.
• Future Potential : A hallmark of impactful research is its potential to birth further studies. As you sift through ethics research paper topics, reflect on their prospective contributions. Can your topic pave the way for subsequent research? Can it evolve with changing societal dynamics? A topic with longevity ensures your research remains relevant beyond its immediate publication.

The odyssey of crafting a research paper is both challenging and rewarding, with the initial choice of topic setting the stage for what follows. While there’s a myriad of “ethics research paper topics” to delve into, ensuring alignment with personal interest, societal relevance, and scholarly depth can transform your research from mundane to monumental. As budding scholars, harnessing the power of a well-chosen topic is the first step in leaving an indelible imprint in the annals of academic and societal discourse.

How to Write an Ethics Research Paper

Writing an ethics research paper is an intricate blend of philosophy, societal observations, and rigorous academic inquiry. Unlike many other disciplines where facts and figures predominantly steer the content, ethics brings in the added layer of moral scrutiny and philosophical debate. Thus, crafting a paper in this domain demands not only academic rigor but also a thoughtful understanding of the ever-evolving moral compass of society.

• Start with a Strong Thesis : The thesis is the linchpin of your research, offering readers a concise insight into your central argument. Given the philosophical nature of ethics, it’s paramount to ensure that your thesis is both precise and thought-provoking. It should be a reflection of your stance while being open to interrogation.
• Ensure Unbiased Representation : Ethical discussions often tread on contentious grounds. While you’ll have your perspective, it’s crucial to present all sides of an argument fairly. This ensures the paper doesn’t become a personal opinion piece but stands as an unbiased academic exploration.
• Incorporate Varied Philosophical Perspectives : Ethics has been debated for millennia, with various philosophical theories emerging over time. Draw from these diverse traditions – be it utilitarianism, deontological ethics, virtue ethics, or others – to enrich your paper’s theoretical foundation.
• Engage with Contemporary Issues : While ethical principles might be timeless, their applications evolve with societal changes. Anchor your paper in contemporary scenarios, drawing parallels or distinctions between age-old principles and modern-day dilemmas.
• Prioritize Depth Over Breadth : Given the vast expanse of ethical debates, it’s tempting to touch upon multiple issues. However, a focused deep dive into one specific issue often yields more scholarly rewards than a superficial sweep across several.
• Cite Reliable Sources : Establish the credibility of your arguments by leaning on reputable sources. Whether you’re quoting ancient philosophers or referencing modern ethicists, ensure your sources are authoritative and relevant.
• Interact with Counterarguments : A well-rounded ethics research paper doesn’t shy away from counterarguments. Instead, it actively engages with them, dissecting their logic and either refuting or integrating their insights. This not only strengthens your primary argument but also showcases a holistic understanding of the topic.
• Maintain a Logical Flow : The nature of ethical discussions can be abstract. Hence, maintaining a clear and logical flow in your paper is vital. Each section should seamlessly lead to the next, with clear transitions ensuring the reader remains engaged and oriented throughout.
• Seek Peer Reviews : Given the subjective nature of ethics, obtaining feedback from peers or mentors can be invaluable. They might offer alternative interpretations, point out potential biases, or suggest additional resources to bolster your arguments.
• Conclude with Future Implications : Round off your paper by discussing the potential implications of your findings. How might they influence future ethical debates, policy decisions, or societal behaviors? This not only adds relevance to your research but also underscores its significance in the broader ethical discourse.

Embarking on the journey of writing an ethics research paper is a commendable endeavor. It’s a pursuit that demands meticulous research, unbiased representation, and deep philosophical introspection. While the path might be laden with challenges, the rewards – in the form of enriched understandings, ignited debates, and potential societal impacts – are profound. As scholars delving into the realm of ethics, let’s strive to craft papers that not only dissect ethical quandaries but also illuminate paths towards a more reflective and just society.

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Methodology

• Ethical Considerations in Research | Types & Examples

Ethical Considerations in Research | Types & Examples

Published on October 18, 2021 by Pritha Bhandari . Revised on May 9, 2024.

Ethical considerations in research are a set of principles that guide your research designs and practices. Scientists and researchers must always adhere to a certain code of conduct when collecting data from people.

The goals of human research often include understanding real-life phenomena, studying effective treatments, investigating behaviors, and improving lives in other ways. What you decide to research and how you conduct that research involve key ethical considerations.

These considerations work to

• protect the rights of research participants
• enhance research validity
• maintain scientific or academic integrity

Table of contents

Why do research ethics matter, getting ethical approval for your study, types of ethical issues, voluntary participation, informed consent, confidentiality, potential for harm, results communication, examples of ethical failures, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about research ethics.

Research ethics matter for scientific integrity, human rights and dignity, and collaboration between science and society. These principles make sure that participation in studies is voluntary, informed, and safe for research subjects.

You’ll balance pursuing important research objectives with using ethical research methods and procedures. It’s always necessary to prevent permanent or excessive harm to participants, whether inadvertent or not.

Defying research ethics will also lower the credibility of your research because it’s hard for others to trust your data if your methods are morally questionable.

Even if a research idea is valuable to society, it doesn’t justify violating the human rights or dignity of your study participants.

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Before you start any study involving data collection with people, you’ll submit your research proposal to an institutional review board (IRB) .

An IRB is a committee that checks whether your research aims and research design are ethically acceptable and follow your institution’s code of conduct. They check that your research materials and procedures are up to code.

If successful, you’ll receive IRB approval, and you can begin collecting data according to the approved procedures. If you want to make any changes to your procedures or materials, you’ll need to submit a modification application to the IRB for approval.

If unsuccessful, you may be asked to re-submit with modifications or your research proposal may receive a rejection. To get IRB approval, it’s important to explicitly note how you’ll tackle each of the ethical issues that may arise in your study.

There are several ethical issues you should always pay attention to in your research design, and these issues can overlap with each other.

You’ll usually outline ways you’ll deal with each issue in your research proposal if you plan to collect data from participants.

Voluntary participation means that all research subjects are free to choose to participate without any pressure or coercion.

All participants are able to withdraw from, or leave, the study at any point without feeling an obligation to continue. Your participants don’t need to provide a reason for leaving the study.

It’s important to make it clear to participants that there are no negative consequences or repercussions to their refusal to participate. After all, they’re taking the time to help you in the research process , so you should respect their decisions without trying to change their minds.

Voluntary participation is an ethical principle protected by international law and many scientific codes of conduct.

Take special care to ensure there’s no pressure on participants when you’re working with vulnerable groups of people who may find it hard to stop the study even when they want to.

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Informed consent refers to a situation in which all potential participants receive and understand all the information they need to decide whether they want to participate. This includes information about the study’s benefits, risks, funding, and institutional approval.

You make sure to provide all potential participants with all the relevant information about

• what the study is about
• the risks and benefits of taking part
• how long the study will take
• your supervisor’s contact information and the institution’s approval number

Usually, you’ll provide participants with a text for them to read and ask them if they have any questions. If they agree to participate, they can sign or initial the consent form. Note that this may not be sufficient for informed consent when you work with particularly vulnerable groups of people.

If you’re collecting data from people with low literacy, make sure to verbally explain the consent form to them before they agree to participate.

For participants with very limited English proficiency, you should always translate the study materials or work with an interpreter so they have all the information in their first language.

In research with children, you’ll often need informed permission for their participation from their parents or guardians. Although children cannot give informed consent, it’s best to also ask for their assent (agreement) to participate, depending on their age and maturity level.

Anonymity means that you don’t know who the participants are and you can’t link any individual participant to their data.

You can only guarantee anonymity by not collecting any personally identifying information—for example, names, phone numbers, email addresses, IP addresses, physical characteristics, photos, and videos.

In many cases, it may be impossible to truly anonymize data collection . For example, data collected in person or by phone cannot be considered fully anonymous because some personal identifiers (demographic information or phone numbers) are impossible to hide.

You’ll also need to collect some identifying information if you give your participants the option to withdraw their data at a later stage.

Data pseudonymization is an alternative method where you replace identifying information about participants with pseudonymous, or fake, identifiers. The data can still be linked to participants but it’s harder to do so because you separate personal information from the study data.

Confidentiality means that you know who the participants are, but you remove all identifying information from your report.

All participants have a right to privacy, so you should protect their personal data for as long as you store or use it. Even when you can’t collect data anonymously, you should secure confidentiality whenever you can.

Some research designs aren’t conducive to confidentiality, but it’s important to make all attempts and inform participants of the risks involved.

As a researcher, you have to consider all possible sources of harm to participants. Harm can come in many different forms.

• Psychological harm: Sensitive questions or tasks may trigger negative emotions such as shame or anxiety.
• Social harm: Participation can involve social risks, public embarrassment, or stigma.
• Physical harm: Pain or injury can result from the study procedures.
• Legal harm: Reporting sensitive data could lead to legal risks or a breach of privacy.

It’s best to consider every possible source of harm in your study as well as concrete ways to mitigate them. Involve your supervisor to discuss steps for harm reduction.

Make sure to disclose all possible risks of harm to participants before the study to get informed consent. If there is a risk of harm, prepare to provide participants with resources or counseling or medical services if needed.

Some of these questions may bring up negative emotions, so you inform participants about the sensitive nature of the survey and assure them that their responses will be confidential.

The way you communicate your research results can sometimes involve ethical issues. Good science communication is honest, reliable, and credible. It’s best to make your results as transparent as possible.

Take steps to actively avoid plagiarism and research misconduct wherever possible.

Plagiarism means submitting others’ works as your own. Although it can be unintentional, copying someone else’s work without proper credit amounts to stealing. It’s an ethical problem in research communication because you may benefit by harming other researchers.

Self-plagiarism is when you republish or re-submit parts of your own papers or reports without properly citing your original work.

This is problematic because you may benefit from presenting your ideas as new and original even though they’ve already been published elsewhere in the past. You may also be infringing on your previous publisher’s copyright, violating an ethical code, or wasting time and resources by doing so.

In extreme cases of self-plagiarism, entire datasets or papers are sometimes duplicated. These are major ethical violations because they can skew research findings if taken as original data.

You notice that two published studies have similar characteristics even though they are from different years. Their sample sizes, locations, treatments, and results are highly similar, and the studies share one author in common.

Research misconduct

Research misconduct means making up or falsifying data, manipulating data analyses, or misrepresenting results in research reports. It’s a form of academic fraud.

These actions are committed intentionally and can have serious consequences; research misconduct is not a simple mistake or a point of disagreement about data analyses.

Research misconduct is a serious ethical issue because it can undermine academic integrity and institutional credibility. It leads to a waste of funding and resources that could have been used for alternative research.

Later investigations revealed that they fabricated and manipulated their data to show a nonexistent link between vaccines and autism. Wakefield also neglected to disclose important conflicts of interest, and his medical license was taken away.

This fraudulent work sparked vaccine hesitancy among parents and caregivers. The rate of MMR vaccinations in children fell sharply, and measles outbreaks became more common due to a lack of herd immunity.

Research scandals with ethical failures are littered throughout history, but some took place not that long ago.

Some scientists in positions of power have historically mistreated or even abused research participants to investigate research problems at any cost. These participants were prisoners, under their care, or otherwise trusted them to treat them with dignity.

To demonstrate the importance of research ethics, we’ll briefly review two research studies that violated human rights in modern history.

These experiments were inhumane and resulted in trauma, permanent disabilities, or death in many cases.

After some Nazi doctors were put on trial for their crimes, the Nuremberg Code of research ethics for human experimentation was developed in 1947 to establish a new standard for human experimentation in medical research.

In reality, the actual goal was to study the effects of the disease when left untreated, and the researchers never informed participants about their diagnoses or the research aims.

Although participants experienced severe health problems, including blindness and other complications, the researchers only pretended to provide medical care.

When treatment became possible in 1943, 11 years after the study began, none of the participants were offered it, despite their health conditions and high risk of death.

Ethical failures like these resulted in severe harm to participants, wasted resources, and lower trust in science and scientists. This is why all research institutions have strict ethical guidelines for performing research.

If you want to know more about statistics , methodology , or research bias , make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples.

• Normal distribution
• Measures of central tendency
• Chi square tests
• Confidence interval
• Quartiles & Quantiles
• Cluster sampling
• Stratified sampling
• Thematic analysis
• Cohort study
• Peer review
• Ethnography

Research bias

• Implicit bias
• Cognitive bias
• Conformity bias
• Hawthorne effect
• Availability heuristic
• Attrition bias
• Social desirability bias

Ethical considerations in research are a set of principles that guide your research designs and practices. These principles include voluntary participation, informed consent, anonymity, confidentiality, potential for harm, and results communication.

Scientists and researchers must always adhere to a certain code of conduct when collecting data from others .

These considerations protect the rights of research participants, enhance research validity , and maintain scientific integrity.

Research ethics matter for scientific integrity, human rights and dignity, and collaboration between science and society. These principles make sure that participation in studies is voluntary, informed, and safe.

Anonymity means you don’t know who the participants are, while confidentiality means you know who they are but remove identifying information from your research report. Both are important ethical considerations .

You can only guarantee anonymity by not collecting any personally identifying information—for example, names, phone numbers, email addresses, IP addresses, physical characteristics, photos, or videos.

You can keep data confidential by using aggregate information in your research report, so that you only refer to groups of participants rather than individuals.

These actions are committed intentionally and can have serious consequences; research misconduct is not a simple mistake or a point of disagreement but a serious ethical failure.

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The FBI & Apple Security vs. Privacy

How can tech companies and government organizations strike a balance between maintaining national security and protecting user privacy?

The Miss Saigon Controversy

When a white actor was cast for the half-French, half-Vietnamese character in the Broadway production of Miss Saigon , debate ensued.

The Sandusky Scandal

Following the conviction of assistant coach Jerry Sandusky for sexual abuse, debate continues on how much university officials and head coach Joe Paterno knew of the crimes.

The Varsity Blues Scandal

A college admissions prep advisor told wealthy parents that while there were front doors into universities and back doors, he had created a side door that was worth exploring.

Providing radiation therapy to cancer patients, Therac-25 had malfunctions that resulted in 6 deaths. Who is accountable when technology causes harm?

Welfare Reform

The Welfare Reform Act changed how welfare operated, intensifying debate over the government’s role in supporting the poor through direct aid.

Wells Fargo and Moral Emotions

In a settlement with regulators, Wells Fargo Bank admitted that it had created as many as two million accounts for customers without their permission.

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12 Interesting Ethical Topics for Essay Papers

• Writing Essays
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• English Grammar
• M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
• B.A., History, Armstrong State University

Writing a persuasive essay requires identifying interesting ethical topics, and these options might inspire you to create a powerful and engaging essay, position paper , or speech for your next assignment.

Should Teens Have Plastic Surgery?

Good looks are highly prized in society. You can see advertisements everywhere urging you to buy products that will supposedly enhance your appearance. While many products are topical, plastic surgery is probably the ultimate game-changer. Going under the knife to enhance your looks can be a quick fix and help you achieve the look you desire. It also carries risks and can have lifelong consequences. Consider whether you think teens—who are still developing into mature individuals—should have the right to make such a big decision at such a young age, or if their parents should be able to decide for them.

Would You Tell If You Saw a Popular Kid Bullying?

Bullying is a big problem in schools and even in society in general. But it can be difficult to show courage, step up—and step in—if you see a popular kid bullying someone at school. Would you report it if you saw this happening? Why or why not?

Would You Speak Up If Your Friend Abused an Animal?

Animal abuse by youngsters can foreshadow more violent acts as these individuals grow up. Speaking up might save the animal pain and suffering today, and it might steer that person away from more violent acts in the future. But would you have the courage to do so? Why or why not?

Would You Tell If You Saw a Friend Cheating on a Test?

Courage can come in subtle forms, and that can include reporting seeing someone cheat on a test. Cheating on a test might not seem like such a big deal; perhaps you've cheated on a test yourself. But it is against the policies of schools and universities worldwide. If you saw someone cheating, would you speak up and tell the teacher? What if it were your buddy cheating and telling might cost you a friendship? Explain your stance.

Should News Stories Slant Toward What People Want to Hear?

There is much debate over whether the news should be unbiased or allow commentary. Newspapers, radios, and news television stations are businesses, just as much as a grocery store or online retailers. They need customers to survive, and that means appealing to what their customers want to hear or see. Slanting reports toward popular opinions could increase ratings and readership, in turn saving newspapers and news shows, as well as jobs. But is this practice ethical? What do you think?

Would You Tell If Your Best Friend Had a Drink at the Prom?

Most schools have strict rules about drinking at the prom, but many students still engage in the practice. After all, they'll be graduating soon. If you saw a friend imbibing, would you tell or look the other way? Why?

Should Football Coaches Be Paid More Than Professors?

Football often brings in more money than any other single activity or program a school offers, including academic classes. In the corporate world, if a business is profitable, the CEO and those who contributed to the success are often rewarded handsomely. With that in mind, shouldn't it be the same in academia? Should top football coaches get paid more than top professors? Why or why not?

Should Politics and Church Be Separate?

Candidates often invoke religion when they're campaigning. It's generally a good way to attract votes. But should the practice be discouraged? The U.S. Constitution, after all, dictates that there should be a separation of church and state in this country. What do you think and why?

Would You Speak Up If You Heard an Ugly Ethnic Statement at a Party Filled With Popular Kids?

As in the previous examples, it can be hard to speak up, especially when an incident involves popular kids. Would you have the courage to say something and risk the ire of the "in" crowd? Who would you tell?

Should Assisted Suicides Be Allowed for Terminally Ill Patients?

Some countries, like the Netherlands, allow assisted suicides , as do some U.S. states. Should "mercy killing" be legal for terminally ill patients who are suffering from great physical pain? What about patients whose diseases will negatively impact their families? Why or why not?

Should a Student's Ethnicity Be a Consideration for College Acceptance?

There has been a long-standing debate about the role ethnicity should play in college acceptance. Proponents of affirmative action argue that underrepresented groups should be given a leg up. Opponents say that all college candidates should be judged on their merits alone. What do you think and why?

Should Companies Gather Information About Their Customers?

Information privacy is a big and growing issue. Every time you log onto the internet and visit an online retailer, news company, or social media site, companies gather information about you. Should they have the right to do so, or should the practice be banned? Why do you think so? Explain your answer.

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92 Moral Dilemma Essay Topic Ideas & Examples

🏆 best moral dilemma topic ideas & essay examples, 🎓 good research topics about moral dilemma, ⭐ simple & easy moral dilemma essay titles, ❓ moral dilemma questions.

• The Resistance of Batman and Joker as a Moral Dilemma In the Dark Knight, Batman prevents the destruction of the city by Joker and fights the injustice to revive the moral system.
• Moral Dilemma in Saunders’ Escape From Spiderhead Thus, the theme of the story traces the definition of the nature of people and love and suggests that all humans, independent of their circumstances, have a choice in a moral dilemma.
• Moral Dilemma: Barking Dog and Neighborhood Since exuberant barking of Stella in the neighborhood disturbs many people, debarking is the appropriate measure according to the utilitarian perspective.
• Moral Dilemma Between the Right Thing to Do and What Is Good Argumentative In the first case of the copywriter who finds out that disclaimer information has been removed from the advertisement, the action I would take would be to continue with the advertisement but have proof of […]
• McDonald’s Ethical and Moral Dilemma Despite his dwelling on the concept of bureaucratic power, Weber says that power is the most important aspect of leadership and the followers should be the only people who grant it to the leaders.
• Moral Dilemmas in Business Ethics As the author’s thesis, it would be necessary to identify that author stress that perspective models, studied in the paper, improve morale and give us an understanding of the situation and, consequently, are more human. […]
• A Moral Dilemma in the Gone Baby Gone Film He managed to act morally in the movie Gone Baby Gone, as spelled by Kant’s theory of maxim and Sandel contrasts.
• Moral Dilemma in Accessing Copyrighted Articles Using Cracking Software The former advocates for maximum benefits to the majority beneficiaries, while the latter requires honesty and sticking to original moral obligations. The use of the app only benefits him and the developer of the app, […]
• Particularism in the Context of Moral Dilemmas This approach is titled particularism, and, in the current essay, I attempt to justify this principle in the context of moral dilemmas and demonstrate how this perspective expands the ethical understanding of the subject.
• Moral Dilemma: Drug-Related Offense of a Policeman To identify all the facts of the situation, it is necessary to mention the properties of marijuana. Therefore, it seems logical for Dale to report the situation in the hopes that a just decision will […]
• Moral, Ethical and Legal Dilemmas of Suicide Since it is a duty of medical practitioners to treat and care for patients, it would be immoral to allow a patient to commit suicide.
• Ethical and Moral Dilemmas in Accounting and Business Entities This may paint a wrong picture of the actual position of the company and may lead to collapsing if irregularities are not addressed as in the case of Enron.
• A Moral Dilemma for the Doctor The interests of the parents are founded on the cultural and societal practices in their area of origin which will eventually make it difficult for the baby to grow and develop in an appropriate manner; […]
• Moral Dilemma in Accounting Management Therefore, the best option from the viewpoint of utilitarianism is for John to withhold information from Patty and the controller. The principle of confidentiality would encourage John to withhold information from Patty and the current […]
• Moral Development: Kohlberg’s Dilemmas Another characteristic of this stage of moral speculation is that the speculators mostly view the dilemma through the lens of consequences it might result in and engage them in a direct or indirect manner.
• Applied Business Ethics: Moral Dilemmas The top management of the company used complex nature of the financial statements and the weaknesses in the accounting standards to manipulate the financial records with an intention of enriching themselves.
• Ethical and Moral Dilemma: McDonald’s Due to the power of self-interests, McDonald’s should focus on its objectives, which is to increase the wealth of its owners rather than distributing its revenues to people.
• The Moral Dilemma in Gone Baby Gone The maxima of Kant’s moral theory are based on the idea of the categorical imperative and the person’s duty to act according to the universal moral laws.
• The Moral Dilemma in the Movie Boomerang – Views of David Hume and Kant This paper highlights the different perspectives to the moral dilemma in the movie by David Hume and Kant. The murder leads to criticism of the government because even after intense investigation, the government is not […]
• The Major Moral Dilemma in Boomerang (1947) It goes without saying that the major dilemma of the film is the one State’s Attorney Henry Harvey, the protagonist of the film, has to face.
• Moral Dilemma’s in the Breakdown 1968 and the Missing Person He was on the journey of selfishness and abandoning his family but he redeemed himself at the end and came to his senses. Priest Leo is convinced he is supposed to be a priest and […]
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• Red Cross and Moral Dilemmas for Humanitarianism in the Era of “Humanitarian” Military Interventions
• The Manager’s Moral Dilemma: Rethinking the ‘Ideal-Type’ Business Ethics Case
• Indian Moral Philosophy: How Should Arjuna Solve His Moral Dilemma
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• Comparing Augustinianism and Thomism in Facing a Moral Dilemma
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• Psychology and Psychosocial: Kohlberg’s Heinz Moral Dilemma Response
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• The Definition of Moral Dilemmas: A Logical Problem
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Ethics Topics for Research Papers: 140+ Ideas

Derived from the Greek word “ethos,” meaning “way of living,” ethics is a branch of philosophy that involves well-founded standards of right and wrong, as well as just and unjust behaviors. By defining concepts such as right, wrong, vice, justice, and crime, ethics examines an individual’s behavior in society.

When writing an ethics research paper, the first step is to come up with an appropriate ethics topic. Framing a research project on ethics requires understanding essential principles like honesty, morals, and integrity, and demonstrating the findings needed to support your hypothesis. This fundamental research can be challenging for many students, particularly those who have chosen complex research topics. Therefore, the first step is brainstorming excellent ethical topics to transform this challenging process into a smooth journey.

With this in mind, we are here to help ease this burden. This blog post compiles over 140+ captivating ethics topics across various disciplines. Each of these topics will assist you in writing a persuasive research paper that will captivate your readers and impress your professors.

Table of Contents

Ethics Comes in a Variety of Forms

Over the centuries, different philosophers have proposed numerous ethical theories. Before diving into the ethical topics that we have categorized, it is crucial to understand the various types of ethics. Ethics can be broadly classified into four branches, as follows:

Descriptive ethics: This branch of ethics deals with the theory that explains the moral norms, attitudes, and practices that societies believe to be right or wrong. It examines how people actually behave and the moral standards they claim to follow.

Normative or prescriptive ethics: The study of “norms” or “principles” that determine what is morally right or wrong and accordingly holds individuals accountable. In simpler terms, this is the study of “ethical actions.” Deontological ethics, virtue ethics, consequentialism, and Nishkam Karmayoga are some examples of normative theories.

Meta-ethics: Meta-ethics studies the nature of ethics as a whole. This branch of ethics analyzes the foundations of our ethical principles and why we use them daily. It involves the investigation of the meaning and justification of moral claims, as well as the nature of moral values and properties.

Applied ethics: This is the most practical branch of ethics. Applied ethics involves the general principles that we apply in our daily lives. This branch deals with the philosophical examination, from a moral standpoint, of specific issues in various fields, such as medicine, business, and the environment.

Selecting the Right Research Topic in Ethics

To create an engaging research paper, the initial step is to select a high-quality research topic that will make your research stand out from the crowd. To score excellent grades, you must develop captivating ethics topics of your choice. Here are a few tips that will help you choose the best option among all the ethics paper topics:

• When framing an ethical research paper, consider choosing a research topic with enough supporting facts, evidence, and details. Avoid any false or fabricated data, as it can ruin the credibility of your paper.
• Select topics involving complex on-going issues or moral quandaries, as they would pique the interest of your professors. Look for topics that are occasionally covered by the media.
• Try to write your research concisely, making it interesting, informative, and relevant. Overly long research is a major turnoff for readers.
• Search for unsolved research paradigms that will allow you to include your opinions and arguments.
• Engage in critical thinking on the best topics. Narrow down some of the best topics that spark your and your readers’ interests and will expand their knowledge.

Identifying the perfect topic that suits all your requirements can be challenging. You can use the tips mentioned above to identify the best topics that meet your needs. However, depending on individual students, this process can still be time-consuming. Instead of brainstorming for hours, delving into research, and writing lengthy research papers , you can seek professional assistance from our research paper writers.

140+ Ethics Topics for Research Papers

Crafting a research paper on ethics can be more challenging than it initially appears. This is because, while most people understand basic ethical values, their interpretations can vary significantly. Ethics is not just about black and white; it delves much deeper into the shades of grey. In this article, our experts from Edumagnate.com have provided you with an extensive list of ethics topics to help jumpstart your research paper. For a better understanding, we recommend reading through each list thoroughly.

Compelling Topics on Ethical Issues

Ethical dilemmas arise when individuals must evaluate whether their actions are morally right. Topics related to such dilemmas often explore complex questions, requiring one to defend their position convincingly. These ethical issues span various fields, including religion, psychology, and sociology. Consequently, incorporating perspectives from these disciplines can help create a unique and insightful research paper.

• Ethical Codes for Sports Refereeing
• Ethical issues in animal research
• The ethical issues with euthanasia
• Ethical Issues in Sports Administration
• Legal Ethics in National and international businesses
• Organizational Ethics and Individual Responsibility
• Understanding sports ethics as a significant tool for accessing moral behavior in sports
• The Ethical Challenges and Controversies of Healthcare Reform
• The Challenge of Terri Schiavo from an ethical perspective
• The Ethical Issues of Pharmaceutical Companies
• Ethical Issues with Abortion
• Sports ethics: use of drugs in sports competition
• Healthcare systems and associated healthcare ethics
• Ethical and cultural issues with group work
• Political and socioeconomic issues amongst different nations
• Religion and Ethics in healthcare provisions
• Ethical Issues and Concerns of a professional sports person
• The ethical side of Motorsports
• The foundation of computer ethics

Since ethics is a branch of philosophy, students can also consider choosing philosophy research topics.

Social Media Business Ethics Topics

To make things easier, our experts have enumerated a list of the most interesting social media business ethics topics for you. These topics are thoroughly reviewed in depth to ensure optimum results for students. Check them out!

• An Introduction to social media ethics
• Is the notion of “controversial fit” on social media ethical?
• Enhancing business performance on social media without eroding business ethics
• The ethical judgment of consumers and controversial advertising avoidance on social media
• Managing ethical responses on social media: effective guidance for business entrepreneurs
• The ethical environment in online communities: information credibility from a social media standpoint
• Employing big data in business organizations and business ethics
• Social media business ethics: a view from the trenches
• Corporate Firing for sharing questionable social media posts: a detailed analysis
• What is the role of social media ethics in achieving responsible business?
• The Influence of social media ethics on Enhancing the effective online presence of Businesses
• The Influence of social media ethics in the ongoing industries
• Social media ethics and Etiquette
• The Impact of social media ethics on Businesses
• The Ethical Issues of Colonizing Mars
• Social media ethics and journalism: a detailed analysis
• The ethical implications of social media: issues and recommendations for entrepreneurs

The Best Bio-Medical Ethics Topics

If you’re interested in bio-medical, then consider choosing a research topic from the following list of suggestions:

• A detailed analysis of the relationship between medical ethics and religious beliefs
• Medical Ethics in Asia versus Europe
• Medical ethics: a detailed analysis
• Ethical Issues in stem cell research and Therapy
• The ethical issues and legal considerations with euthanasia
• Ethical behavioral issues and Problems in Medicine
• A detailed analysis for monitoring the application of idol ethics in medical fields
• The ethical challenges and Considerations for practicing medicine overseas
• Ethical Considerations for the Inclusion of pregnant women as research participants
• How do medical ethics confront religious beliefs?
• Bio-ethics versus medical ethics: a comparative analysis
• Contemporary medical ethics: a research analysis of Iran
• Ethical issues, including bioethics (conduct a case study)
• Principles of bio-medical ethics
• Human testing of drugs: is it ethical?
• Debunking the Ethics of Neuroenhancement
• The imperativeness of medical ethics
• The perception of biomedical ethics
• The Ethics of Development: an integral Approach

Read Also – Interesting biology research topics

Bioethics Research Paper Topics

Bioethics talks about topics related to health, life, genetics, neurology, and even plastic surgery. Research paper topics in bioethics are brilliant topics to write about. The following list is a compilation of 20 bioethics research paper topics that you can consider:

• Ethical conflicts over disclosure and barring services
• Bioethics: Why is philosophy essential for progress?
• Contemporary Issues in Bioethics
• A critical understanding of the ethical responsibilities associated with CRISPR
• Bioethics and stem cell research
• 5 strange and sinister medical procedures from History
• Bioethics and political ideology: The case of active voluntary euthanasia
• Availability of vaccines for everyone: an overview
• The ethics of brain-boosting
• Euthanasia: An Overview and the Jewish Perspective
• The legal and ethical considerations of dealing with a brain-dead person
• A descriptive analysis of Bioethics in Society
• Ethics and genetic engineering—lessons to learn
• Islam and bioethics: Beyond abortion and euthanasia
• Exploring the ethical principles and Practice of plastic surgery
• Pediatric neuroenhancement: ethical, legal, social, and neurodevelopmental implications
• Bioethics, disability, and death: Uncovering cultural bias in the euthanasia debate
• Secular Bioethics and Euthanasia in a democratic public space

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Medical Ethics Topics to Score Excellent Grades

The list of medical ethics topics below can assist you with some of these amazing medical ethics topics. For a better understanding, consider reading each topic among these recommendations:

• Is physician-assisted suicide legal? Is it ethical?
• The ethical and legal issues with surrogacy
• The Ethical and Medical Implications of Circumcision
• The Ethics of Surrogacy
• The ethics of abortion: Is it ethically right?
• Ethical and policy issues associated with uterine transplants
• Ethical considerations associated with living donations: an overview
• The Ethics of Condemned Prisoner Organ Donation
• Ethical theories and laws associated with medical ethics
• The Ethics of employing human embryos in genetic engineering research
• Medical ethics dilemma: an overview
• The ethical perspectives of the Nightingale pledge
• The ethics of animal research
• Current ethical issues and Challenges in Healthcare
• Religion, beliefs, and medical ethics: an overview
• Bioethics, human rights, and childbirth
• Understanding Morality without ethics

Enthralling Computing Ethics Topics

Technological advancements have revolutionized all facets of human existence. Computer ethics encompass a collection of fundamental principles aimed at addressing concerns associated with the improper use of computers and outlining preventive measures. The list provided below features some of the most compelling ethical research topics in the realm of computer ethics.

• Should ethics boards be required for IT companies?
• Discussing the risks associated with keeping sensitive data online.
• Is hacking a moral act?
• Examine the ethical issues raised by artificial intelligence.
• Exploring computer privacy-related problems and their solutions
• The moral dilemmas associated with drone use
• Evaluating the moral implications of internet users’ Anonymity
• Ethical prevention of cyberbullying: What can be done for a permanent termination?
• Sabotaging others’ computers: how is this ethically wrong?
• Mapping the foundationalist debate in computer ethics
• A method in computer ethics: Towards a multi-level interdisciplinary approach
• Computer ethics: the significance of personal, formal, and informal codes
• Gender and computer ethics
• Reasons, relativity, and Responsibility in computer ethics
• The Ethics of Computing: A Survey of the computing-oriented Literature
• Computer Ethics and moral methodology
• The ethics of online Anonymity or Zuckerberg vs.” Moot.”
• Propose an educational plan for computer ethics and information security

Research Paper Topics in Sports Ethics

Sports ethics extend beyond mere behavior and thought processes, as they are fundamentally rooted in respect, fairness, integrity, and responsibility within the sports arena. Athletes often face dilemmas regarding what actions to take or avoid due to the ethical considerations in sports. Although this subject can be complex, a deep understanding allows for exceptional research on sports ethics. Here are some example topics:

• Sports Ethics: An Anthology
• Ethics in sports
• Performance-enhancing drugs in sport: The ethical issue
• The key components of sports ethics
• The primary moral obligations of athletes
• The imperativeness of ethics in sports
• A detailed analysis of the ethical responsibilities of a sportsperson
• Are professional sporting activities moral in today’s society?
• The Paralympic Games and the Promotion of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities
• Athletes’ healthcare and ethical Concerns
• Impact of ethical behavior outside the Pitch
• The moral dimensions of Motorsports
• Child exploitation to become elite athletes
• Moral and ethical responsibilities of a sportsperson
• How do people enter the world of professional sports, and what ethical issues do they face?
• Alienation of sports from real life
• How sports and games serve as the primary outlet for human ethics
• Sports ethics and medicine
• The unique ethics of sports medicine

Top-Notch Business Ethics Topics

Your ethics paper topic on business must be engaging and provide a practical solution to the ongoing economic challenges. Here is a compilation of some of the best business ethical topics for research papers. Each topic on this list will allow you to draft an excellent research paper and earn brilliant grades. Read on.

• Roots of business ethics in Psychology
• A Model of business ethics
• A detailed study of the ethical philosophy behind Bitcoin
• The unique connection between business success and personal integrity
• Moral Leadership and Unethical Pro-Organizational Behavior
• How closely can managers monitor their employees’ behavior?
• Business ethics and social responsibility education: shifting the worldview
• Ethical behaviors and economic rationality: an overview
• Business ethics and social responsibilities
• Who determines whether private or personal information should be collected?
• The business ethics case of McDonald’s
• Understanding and preventing ethical failures in leadership
• Ethical Dilemmas in Conducting Business
• Moral policing: It’s more business than ideology.
• Data Security Enhancement and Business Ethics
• Perceptions of business ethics: Students vs. business people
• American business culture and ethical norms
• Does business ethics make economic sense?
• Moral Leadership and business ethics
• Business Ethics in Islam: the glaring gap in Practice

Read Also – Business Research Topics

Criminal Justice Research Topics in Ethics

We always hear how law enforcement is made to protect the commoner’s rights. Unfortunately, it is not always the case. These law enforcers sometimes end up in morally ambiguous situations. Now and then, we often hear news about how a fellow police officer exploited a commoner. So, if this topic piques your interest, this list might be helpful for you. Below are some interesting topics in criminal justice ethics.

• The Codes of ethics for criminal justice
• Integrity in the Criminal Justice System
• A detailed analysis of the ethics of criminal justice
• Model affairs and impartial statutory policies.
• Arguments for and against capital punishment
• Discussion on the ethical ramifications of the “innocent until proven guilty” principle
• Examination of the Stanford Prison Experiment’s ethical issues.
• What moral ramifications do school shooter exercises have?
• Discuss if Julian Assange’s prosecution is appropriate.
• Examining the ethical difficulties of privatized prisons
• Imprisonment of young offenders: Is it ethically right?
• Ethics in criminal justice: theory and practices
• Ethical Dilemmas and decisions in criminal justice

Read Also – 150 Advanced Law Research Paper Topics

Environmental Ethics Topics

If you are willing to compare and contrast topics for environmental ethics, you can take ideas from some of the below-given research topics. Read through the entire list, narrow down the best topics, and finally, set your tone to make your point.

• An Introduction to environmental ethics
• The bio-ethical standards of Coca-Cola
• A detailed study of the global warming ethics
• Assessing the US Government’s environmental ethics
• Should companies be held accountable for preserving the environment?
• A deeper look at the EU Administration’s environmental policy and commercial ethics
• Environmental Regulations and business ethics
• A detailed study on the primary environmental and ethical issues in business?
• Ethics of setting up residential structures in sensitive habitats.
• Animal testing in the cosmetic industry
• Recreational environmental ethics: A more detailed examination of the effects of hunting
• Ethical evaluation of initiatives to combat climate change
• Commercial whaling: an ethical analysis
• A detailed evaluation of insider trading: can we call it ethical?
• Is there a moral case for pollution trade-off programmers?
• What do people think about good versus bad ethics?
• Electric vehicles can help rescue the environment.
• Tax evasion and tax avoidance: what exactly is legally right?
• A critical evaluation of the global warming ethics
• Pollution trade-off programs: are they ethically justified?
• Ethical Analysis of climate change mitigation efforts

Read Also – List of 150 Enticing Chemistry Research Topics

Final Thoughts

From the array of ethics topics provided, choose one that captures your interest and aligns with your academic preferences. We hope this list proves insightful for your upcoming research paper. If you ever feel stuck, remember that help is available!

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200 Ethical Research Paper Topics For A Universal Morality Boost

Ethics are what make us better people. Researchers play a significant role in the development of a nation’s ethics. You are about to be a researcher as well. That is why our writers, who also offer  paper writing services , have brought many ethical research paper topics for your inspiration.

Table of Contents

What Are The Best Ethical Research Paper Topics For A Great Paper?

Are you looking for some ethical research paper topics for social media ? Or are you doing your research in medicine? We love guiding students like you on  how to write a research paper . That way, we have all the ethical topics you need in the following content.

Ethical Research Paper Topics Related To Social Media

• Educating children to use social media better
• Preparing children against cyberbullying
• Ethics of using social media
• A research analysis on the Facebook data ethics
• Privacy ethics need to be a significant concern on social media platforms
• Use of social media to endorse and preserve human ethics
• The aftermath of COVID-19 has resulted in a social dilemma and economic disruption
• An influential aspect of the pandemic is mental health
• Ethical challenges on the use of Twitter
• The impact of social and territorial inequalities on health
• Social media politics, concerns, and obligations
• Ethical reflection using social media
• Developing a sense of social media ethics in university students
• Ethics of digital business relations: A research focused on Linkedin
• testing and adjustment of privacy and ethical concerns on social media
• Linkedin Ethics and digital business ethics, concerns, and relation
• The ethical issues raised by the pandemic
• Deletion of Donald Trump’s Twitter profile and the role of social media in the American political chaos
• Children and adolescents’ mental health during the pandemic
• Linkedin privacy concerns and business ethics
• Current spirit of social networks: The freedom and friendliness
• How has the portrait of social media changed over the last decade, and why?
• Ethical concerns related to social media censoring in China and Russia
• Role of ethics when you find yourself in a delicate political situation
• Political ethics and their importance on social media
• Privacy dilemma on Facebook and its consequences
• Research on data selling by digital social media platforms
• Ethical concerns of the political side of the Twitter
• Rise of ethical concerns about Twitter after Elon Musk Takeover
• The necessity to integrate social media and make the best use of them
• Organizational ethics and concerns of colleagues communicating through social media
• Role of social media in developing organizational harmony and a sense of ethics
• Freedom and liberty on social media and modern human rights
• Teaching school kids the right way to social media within ethical boundaries
• Studying the term “privacy policy” in the sense of the social network

Ethical Research Paper Topics Related To the Internet

• Ethical issues raised by the Internet in the last decades
• How the Internet has been causing significant concerns related to ethics
• How can education about social ethics can make a safer virtual for everyone
• An analysis of ethical concerns related to the Internet and the results of research
• An ethical and philosophical analysis of the Internet
• The impact of the Internet on humanity’s foundations
• Communication ethics in the age of the technological revolution 
• Using the Internet for social interaction and ethical concerns
• Religious and ethical issues are raised on the Internet in South Asia
• Organizational and social ethics of the Internet
• A research paper on AI ethics: Importance, fears, and opportunities
• The spirit of the information age and hacker ethics
• Privacy concerns on the Internet and the digital revolution
• Human activity is affected by digital ethics in all fields
• Concerns regarding cyber journalism’s ethical standards
• Internet ethics: the defining issue of our time
• A growing number of people are concerned about Internet privacy in their daily lives
• Questions of the 21st century arise from the Internet of Things
• The impact of internet transparency on society
• Incorporating hate speech detection algorithms into the Internet
• The ethical implications of open source software and artificial intelligence
• Why are most people and cultures concerned about digital ethics?
• An ethical approach to hacking and a secure internet
• Internet ethics in developing countries
• Religious hatred on the Internet in South Asian countries
• Solving the problems and concepts of the internet issues 

Ethical Research Paper Topics For Children

• Importance of social ethics
• Training tours and awareness seminars related to social ethics
• Role of ethics in the growth and development of a state
• The impact of ethics on humanity’s foundations
• Teaching ethics to children in school
• Educating children about the importance of social ethics
• Sense of political ethics in children from the very early age
• Ethics in the school time
• Role of teacher’s character in the development of ethics in younger peers
• Importance of social media ethics among children
• Role of ethical understanding among peers in schools 
• Teaching ethics in the light of social sciences
• Humanity and ethics and the importance of vulnerability
• Moral understanding in the children
• Ethical training of teachers in Montessori
• Teaching ethics at early ages for better development of teens
• Ethical dilemmas among youngsters in the digital age
• Ethical understanding between children from different religious backgrounds
• Activities in school to develop ethical habits in students
• Understanding the concept of empathy for the sake of better ethical development
• A research analysis on Educational ethics 
• Ethics in the classroom and a teacher’s responsibility
• Parents must teach children about ethics and responsibility
• Role of ethics and morality in developing harmony among different demographics

Interesting Ethics Research Paper Topics

• Ethics in the age of globalization
• How democracy helps improve ethical understandings of human beings
• Social interaction and ethical concerns in community groups
• Religious and ethical issues in modern society
• Business ethics as the syllabus for MBA students
• Nietzche’s ethics: A modern study
• The ethical hypothesis in a world without religion
• concepts of motivation, internal and external motivation
• Aristotelian ethics compared to those of Plato’s
• Ethical dilemmas in a capitalist society: is socialism the honest answer we are looking for?
• A historical analysis of the socialist ethics in Russia and the Asian States
• The role of literature in the ethical development of the human society
• Ethical concepts found in the books of Albert Camus
• Motivational speakers and ethics
• Ethical understanding of the literature in the modern world
• A dive into the ethical understanding of the modern literature
• Postmodern and ethics in the 21st century
• An analysis of ethical concerns related to social behaviors
• An ethical and philosophical analysis of democracy
• Ethical dilemma in the absence of religion
• Most significant ethical concerns of the postmodern world
• What role does religion play in the ethical foundations of a society
• Greek ethics compared to the modern world society
• Literary ethics and the role of book reading habits for a student’s moral understanding
• Ethical morality: A comparison or contrast with Machiavellian thought

Ethical Research Paper Topics For Thesis

• The ethics of reconstruction and the moral fortune of reconstruction
• An ethical approach to care and empathy
• Importance of business ethics for a successful organization
• An ethics of care and morality of justice based on narratives
• Teaching ethics in relational terms.
• The concepts of ethics are based on desire and alterity.
• How does Aristotle’s ethics affect our lives today?
• Dual moralizing and ethical goals of educational sanctions
• The ethics of mediation and the development of social and ethical harmony during conflicts
• Manage conflicts according to ethical principles
• Putting values into practice in schools
• Disparities in ethical competence in discussion
• Recognizing the problem: The desire for recognition
• The need for ethics in modern society
• The heuristic model of ethics in education
• Is virtue ethics an illusion of intuitive moral knowledge?
• Teachers’ role in improving society through ethical behavior
• The basis of ethics is the demand for love or transference
• Crime scene investigation and criminology ethics
• What is the ethical framework for researchers?
• The ethics of work and the workplace
• The relationship and role of ethics in psychoanalysis
• The ethics of the subject or the question of the subject
• Educating character or cultivating Aristotelian virtues within the republican school
• What role does the Aristotelian ethical model play in modern society?
• Moral communication through active engagement
• Deliberative Competence or Ethics of Discussion
• Do you think the categorical imperative is superegos, sadistic or ethical?
• Competencies in cognitive, discursive, conative, affective, and relational abilities

Ethical Research Paper Topics For Education and Pedagogy

• Analyzing the problem from a psychoanalytic perspective
• Ethical and moral exemplarity: the double face of exemplarity
• A social perspective on ethical problems
• A consideration of the ethical status of right-wing opinions
• A study of the confusion between ethics and deontology
• Rhetoric’s legitimacy as a technique is an ethical question
• The relationship between law and ethics: a comparison and contrast
• Academic philosophy today: a loss of legitimacy and an ethical stance
• Evaluating the moral exemplarity or identification of a person
• Politics and technology in a race to the bottom
• An ethical problem from a philosophical perspective
• The difficulty of ethical gestures
• The ethical concerns of business trends
• A concept of ethical language 
• Ethics concepts that are essential for understanding
• From an educational perspective, looking at ethical studies
• Ethical conflicts in philosophical debates
• Philosophy’s ethical questions and the moral duty to answer them
• Professionals with a sense of responsibility at the crossroads between morality and ethics
• What is the purpose of semantically confusing ethics with morals?
• The ethics of linguistics: a detailed analysis
• Educational influence on civics and morals
• Education in civics and morals with virtue instruction
• The social dimensions of ethical studies
• Analyzing ethical issues in politics
• The role of ethics in managing diversity 
• Concerns of educational institutions and society
• Education within the framework of a shared vision of the common good
• An analysis of the development of language and communication skills
• Practices in teaching that raise ethical concerns

Psychology Ethical Research Paper Topics

• Psychology-related ethical issues
• Psychology of children and ethics
• Psychology of ethics based on Carl Jung’s teachings
• Is it possible to research a subject incapable of giving voluntary consent?
• Moral and ethical considerations in the psychology of learning
• Children progress through different stages of development
• Psychological research involving general audiences: ethical considerations
• An ethical approach to children from the perspective of a psychologist
• A sub-discipline of psychology
• Relationship between psychology and ethics: currents of thought
• The ethical implications of Freud’s work
• Ethical guidance on the debate of who should be saved first?
• A researcher must respect the freedom of a prospective subject
• A guide to ethical research in psychology
• An ethical framework for psychoanalysis
• A fundamental principle of psychological ethics is confidentiality between doctors and patients
• An overview of general psychology related to ethics
• Understanding and relevance for diagnosis and treatment
• Making information more understandable
• Maintaining the confidentiality of research subjects and participants
• An ethical and scientific evaluation of psychological research

Medicine Ethical Research Paper Topics

• Approach to ethical decision-making when stopping food consumption
• Geriatric rehabilitation team ethical reflection
• The ethics of medical care in prison
• Conflicts and issues related to hospital ethics
• Towards a conceptual topology for health ethics
• Importance of teaching medical ethics to nurses
• Nursing education and training in ethical practices
• From consent to pediatric hospital care for young children
• Children in emergencies: ethical reflections
• Caregiver support: a better way to think about it
• An analysis of the daily lives of patients who are dependent on others
• What is the impact of too much activity on geriatric caregivers?
• Medical ethics as the primary part of caregiving training
• Free and informed consent for patients with neurodegenerative disorders
• Caregiver role in end-of-life ethical reflection
• Concerns about the ethical use of biological resources
• Kidney transplant eligibility criteria
• Identification of domestic violence by the attending physician
• Physiotherapy consent and autonomy ambiguity
• Medical terminations: assessing their seriousness
• Patient’s end-of-life ethical encounter
• Importance of medical ethics in life-saving situations
• Adolescent psychiatric care institute challenges

We are optimistic that you already have your breakthrough ethical research paper topics. You are going to ace this paper. If you are still confused,  contact us  at Paper Perk; we’re there to help.

What are some good topics in ethics?

You might want to try these 5 topics in psychology ethics:

What are some examples of ethical research?

Here are some exciting examples of ethical research:

• Rhetoric's legitimacy as a technique is an ethical question

What is a specific research topic about ethics?

What topics are best for research.

There could be a lot of research topics that you can choose from. You can have a look at our 402 research topics as well for general categories.

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180 Ethics Topics & Ethical Questions to Debate

Our code of ethics is derived from what we think is right or wrong. On top of that, we have to agree to the moral standards established by the society we live in. Conventional norms generally label theft, murder, or harassment as bad. However, there are many influences that impact our considerations and understanding of ethics.

Ethics is a branch of philosophy that studies moral issues. This article outlines the three different types of ethics and presents a list of compelling ethics topics for essays and research papers, as well as ethical questions to debate.

You don’t know how to write about ethics or which ethical argument topic to choose for your paper? Maybe your assignment deadline is dreadfully looming over you? Our custom writing service is happy to help you craft a fantastic essay on ethics whenever the need arises.

🔝 Top 10 Ethical Topics

• 🧑🤝🧑Types of Ethics
• 🤔 Ethical Issues
• 🖥️ Computer Ethics
• 🧬 Bioethics
• 🚓👮 Criminal Justice
• ⚖️ Ethical Dilemmas

⭐ Top 10 Ethics Topics to Debate

😈 ethical questions to debate, 🔍 references.

• Religious beliefs vs. medical care
• Issues behind unpaid internships
• Toxic environment at the workplace
• The dilemma of reporting an accident
• Should one’s political leanings be private?
• The limits of doctor-patient confidentiality
• Is it ethical to pay children for good grades?
• Ethics at the workplace and discrimination
• Should social media be allowed at the workplace?
• Promotion of environmental responsibility in business

🧑🤝🧑 Types of Ethics

Modern philosophy splits ethics into three groups: metaethics, normative ethics, and applied ethics.

• The core question of metaethics is: “What is morality, and where does it come from?” It is also concerned with the emergence of human values, motivation, and reasoning.
• Normative ethics seeks to answer the question, “How should I act?” An example of a normative moral theory is Kant’s Categorical Imperative: Act only according to that maxim whereby you can, at the same time, will that it should become a universal law . In other words: be kind.
• Applied ethics seeks to apply moral considerations into real-life controversial subjects. Its contents can vary greatly and touch bioethics as well as criminal justice. It studies specific actions and practices from the point of moral acceptance.

However, ethics does not end with these three types. Over the centuries, philosophers have proposed various ethical theories. Their four general categories are deontological, utilitarian, right, and virtue ethics.

• A deontologist is a person with a set of moral duties from which they will not adhere. When faced with an ethical conflict, they will always act according to their self-proclaimed obligations.
• For a utilitarian , a decision needs to yield the greatest benefit for the majority.
• If rights are the root of an ethical theory, these are the highest priority. A person’s rights can either be established in a society by law or bestowed from one individual upon another.
• Judging someone by virtue means considering a person’s character rather than their actions. Here, an individual’s reputation, motivation, and ethics play a crucial role.

Now that you know the basics, you have the perfect ground to start your ethics essay.

🤔 Ethical Topics for an Essay

Ethical issues are situations in which an individual needs to evaluate which course of action is morally right. Essays on this topic shine a light on difficult questions. Therefore, students need to defend their position convincingly.

• Discuss what we should do about climate change.
• What are the moral problems surrounding abortion?
• Can we still justify eating meat?
• Investigate the use of plastic in the beauty industry.
• Is it unethical to be extremely rich?
• Should you buy Nestlé products despite the fact that the company privatizes water?
• Is the unequal distribution of wealth unethical?
• Discuss how workplace ethics should take sexism into account.
• What can we do to combat racism?
• Why are LGBT+ people discriminated against?
• Should euthanasia be legal?
• Can war be ethical?
• Should schools punish students for attending the Fridays for Future protests?
• Would drug use be unethical if it were legal?
• Explain the moral problems that come with automating jobs.

• Is it ethical to hire someone to do assignments for you?
• How far should everyone’s right to privacy go?
• Is using animals for scientific testing unethical?
• How should governments deal with refugees? 
• Discuss the carbon impact of having children.
• Can modern societies still be held accountable for what their nation did in the past?
• Analyze the benefits and disadvantages of universal income.
• How much control should the state have on the press?
• Should schools teach religion?
• What are ethical concerns regarding downloading media from the internet?

🖥️ Computer Ethics Essay Topics

The advent of information technology has altered every aspect of our lives. Computer ethics applies traditional moral theories to everything surrounding computers and cyber security. The list below contains enthralling ethical topics concerned with the realm of computing.

• How much work should we leave entirely to computers?
• Discuss the dangers of storing vulnerable data online.
• Are computers secure enough to contain so much information about our lives?
• Discuss if hacking can be morally justified.
• Examine privacy-related concerns regarding computers .
• Should all software be free?
• How can you legitimize the possession of a computer algorithm patent?
• What can be done to prevent cyberbullying?
• Investigate the moral effects anonymity has on internet users.
• Whose laws apply if you wish to protect your rights online?
• Discuss how the necessity to own a computer impacts poorer nations and people.
• Which ethical problems can people face due to the internet’s possibilities?
• When is sabotaging another person’s computer justified?
• Analyze the social responsibility that comes with developing new software.
• Are computer crimes less harmful than crimes against humans?
• Who owns information that is distributed online?
• What is more important: easy accessibility or privacy?
• Investigate the moral problems associated with AI.
• If a computer makes a critical mistake, whose fault is it?
• Discuss the importance of netiquette.
• How should tech companies deal with ethical problems?
• Can AI algorithms ensure ethical behavior? 
• Why do tech companies need ethics boards?
• Which ethical conflicts appear when using drones?
• Investigate racial bias in facial recognition systems.

🏅 Sports Ethics Topics for a Paper

Morality in sports is based on integrity, respect, responsibility, and fairness. Often, this puts athletes into a dilemma: do I want to be ethical, or do I want to win? Answering these questions is not always easy. The following list compiles sports topics for a research paper on ethics.

• What are moral complications when using enhancement drugs?
• Is gamesmanship unethical?
• How important is ethics in sports?
• Discuss the moral responsibilities of athletes .
• What are ethical reasons to pay college athletes?
• Investigate the ethical implications of kneeling for the national anthem .
• Can college sports and the principles of higher education go hand in hand?
• Investigate the sexist bias in sports.
• Was it selfish when the American female soccer team went to court to demand equal pay?

• What moral obligations do universities have towards their athletes?
• When can you justify cheating?
• Concerning the environment, how can professional sports events be ethical?
• Which ethical issues do healthcare workers have concerning sportspeople? 
• Which moral duties do teams’ coaches have?
• Are the extremely high salaries of sports professionals justified?
• In 2003, the Olympics abolished the wild card system. Was that fair?
• Because of the Paralympics, disabled athletes cannot take part in the real Olympics. Is that discriminatory?
• Discuss how money influences the fairness of a sport.
• Debate if and how children are exploited to become elite athletes.
• Which moral duties should a good sport follow?
• How much should parents get involved in their child’s physical education?
• Investigate if everyday codes of ethics should apply to sports.
• Discuss the ethical implications of motorsports.
• Who is responsible if a player gets injured?
• Are referees always fair?

🧬 Bioethics Topics for an Essay

Bioethics comes into play when we talk about life and health. It expands from genetics to neurology and even plastic surgery. In the name of the common good, researchers often find themselves in conflicting positions. This makes bioethics an especially exciting topic to write about.

• Discuss the moral conflicts of genetic engineering. 
• What are the ethical responsibilities associated with using CRISPR? 
• Investigate the problems of stem cell research.
• When can humans be used for drug testing? 
• Should vaccinations be mandatory for everyone?
• Investigate the ethics that apply to a medical worker.
• Discuss the harmful effects of plastic surgery. 
• Should a person who is brain dead be kept alive?
• Is it just that medical care is linked to an individual’s ability to pay?
• Should everyone be an organ donor by default?
• What is more important: a person’s right to privacy or the information of at-risk relatives?
• Is prenatal invasive testing ethical?
• Should neuroenhancement drugs be legal?
• Discuss ethical conflicts concerning Disclosure and Barring Service.
• Is it ethical to improve memory functions with brain stimulation?
• Analyze the ethical issues concerning precision medicine.
• What are the problems of surrogacy? 
• Should medical personnel collect healthy tissues of a deceased person without their consent?

• What should be done with the child of a brain-dead pregnant woman?
• How important is a subject’s anonymity during research?
• Discuss the ethics of shared decision-making .
• How much responsibility do mentally challenged people carry for their actions?
• Was Sweden right not to impose strict lockdown rules during the COVID-19 pandemic?
• To what extent are businesses responsible for their employees’ health?
• Should universal healthcare be free?

🚓👮 Criminal Justice Ethics Topics to Write About

Law enforcers should always act ethically. Unfortunately, it is not always the case. Police officers and attorneys often end up in morally ambiguous situations. In many cases, they don’t do what the public deems the right thing. Below are the examples of criminal justice ethics topics.

• When is it legitimate for a police officer to use violence?
• How can an officer remain impartial?
• Should law enforcement visibly wear guns in public? 
• How much force is too much?
• Investigate possible ethical implications associated with true crime podcasts.
• Should prostitution be legal in the US?
• How ethical is interrogation? 
• Can torture be justified?
• Discuss the ethical consequences of lying when working in criminal justice .
• Is working undercover deception? 
• Debate whether it is an American citizen’s moral duty to participate in jury duty.
• Should the police be allowed to access everyone’s data?
• Discuss the moral complications of “innocent until proven guilty.”
• Should convicted pedophiles be allowed to see their children?
• Can teaching ethics at schools prevent crime?
• Analyze ethical problems of the Stanford Prison Experiment.
• Should NATO have become involved in America’s Afghan war?
• What are the ethical implications of shooter drills at school?
• Was Edward Snowden morally in the wrong?
• How should we deal with child soldiers?
• Discuss if the prosecution of Julian Assange is justified.
• Examine the ethical problems of private prisons.
• What moral obligations should someone consider when granting prisoners the right to work?
• When is capital punishment justified?
• Is it ethical to incarcerate juvenile offenders? 

⚖️ Ethical Dilemma Topics to Write About

An ethical issue becomes a dilemma when different moral standards clash with each other. In this situation, it is impossible to find a path to an ethically permissible solution that is unambiguous. The following sample topics are a solid base to start a discussion on morals.

• Should parents watch over what their children do on the internet?
• Would you report an accident you caused if there are no witnesses?
• What should a doctor do if a patient refuses life-saving treatment for religious reasons? 
• Should you turn down a client if their political views do not match yours?
• Would you promote something you are not convinced of to get money?
• Should you lie to land a job that gets you out of poverty?

• Your partner cheated on you. Now, you get the chance to take your revenge with someone you really like. Would you do it? 
• Should students use automated writing tools like free thesis generators , summarizers, and paraphrasers?
• Your teacher is continuously mocking your classmate. You are a teacher’s pet. Would you speak up?
• Your son likes to wear dresses. One day, he asks if he can wear one to school. Will you let him?
• You are very religious. Your daughter wants to get married to another woman and invites you to her wedding. What will you do?
• Prenatal testing showed that your unborn child has a disability. Would you terminate pregnancy?
• You are in a long-term relationship. Suddenly, your partner gets a job offer in another part of the world. What would you do?
• You have a terminal illness. This makes you a financial burden to your relatives. Are you obliged towards them to quit your treatment?
• You have a red and a blue candy bar. Blue is your favorite, but you also know that it’s your friend’s favorite. Will you give it to them?
• A friend asked you for a loan. Since then, they have not given you anything back. They are still not wholly stable financially. Will you ask them to return the money?
• Your grandma passed away and bequeathed her favorite mink coat to you. You are a vegan. What do you do?
• A few years ago, you borrowed a gun from a friend. Now, they ask for it back, but their mental state seems to be rapidly deteriorating. This makes you scared they are going to shoot someone, or themselves. What do you do?
• You find out that your friend cheats on their spouse. You are close friends with their family. Will you tell on them?
• For your birthday, your friend gave you a sweater they’ve made themselves. You think it’s ugly. Do you tell them?
• You are a vegan. Should you buy vegan products which are highly problematic to produce? 
• You are in a restaurant. Your order arrives too late. The waitress looks stressed. Will you make her take it back?
• You went to the store and bought a new, expensive item. The clerk gives you too much change. Do you give it back?
• You are walking with a friend and find $50 on the floor. Would you share it with them?
• Your child firmly believes in Santa Claus. One Christmas, they start suspecting that he is not real. What do you do? 
• Is having pets ethical?
• Can eating meat be justified?
• Should we defund the police?
• Should atomic bombs be banned?
• Can discrimination be justified?
• Is it ethical to ask someone’s age?
• Should children get paid for chores?
• Is it unprofessional to send voice messages?
• Should children be allowed to vote?
• Should influencers promote products they don’t use?
• Should there be any limitations to doctor and patient confidentiality?
• Should physician-assisted suicide be allowed?
• Can teenagers get plastic surgery?
• What to do when you find out that your relative has committed an offense?
• What to do when you see your friend cheating on the exam?
• Should sportsmen be paid more than teachers?
• Should gender quotas be used during parliamentary elections?
• Do companies have the right to collect information about their customers?
• Can politicians appeal to religious issues during electoral campaigns?
• Should fake news be censored in a democratic society?

We hope that in this list you’ve found the ethics topic that fits you the best. Good luck with your assignment!

Further reading:

• 430 Philosophy Topics & Questions for Your Essay
• 226 Research Topics on Criminal Justice & Criminology
• 512 Research Topics on HumSS (Humanities & Social Sciences)
• 204 Research Topics on Technology & Computer Science
• What’s the Difference Between Morality and Ethics?: Britannica
• What is Ethics?: Santa Clara University
• Ethics: Internet Encyclopedia of Philosophy
• Metaethics: Stanford Encyclopedia of Philosophy
• Ethical Issues: Idaho State University
• The Problem with AI Ethics: The Verge
• Sports Ethics: Santa Clara University
• What Is Bioethics?: Michigan State University
• Ethics in Criminal Justice: Campbellsville University
• Kant’s Formula of Universal Law: Harvard University
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Ethical challenges of researchers in qualitative studies: the necessity to develop a specific guideline

Mahnaz sanjari.

1 Nursing PhD Candidate, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

Fatemeh Bahramnezhad

Fatemeh khoshnava fomani, mahnaz shoghi.

2 Assistant Professor, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran

Mohammad Ali Cheraghi

3 Associate Professor, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran.

Considering the nature of qualitative studies, the interaction between researchers and participants can be ethically challenging for the former, as they are personally involved in different stages of the study. Therefore, formulation of specific ethical guidelines in this respect seems to be essential. The present paper aimed to discuss the necessity to develop explicit guidelines for conducting qualitative studies with regard to the researchers’ role. For this purpose, a literature review was carried out in domestic and international databases by related keywords.

Health care providers who carry out qualitative research have an immense responsibility. As there is no statistical analysis in qualitative studies, the researcher has to both evaluate what he or she observes and to interpret it. Providing researchers with the necessary skills and applying stringent supervision can lead to better extraction of reliable information from qualitative studies. This article presents a debate in order to illustrate how researchers could cover the ethical challenges of qualitative studies and provide applicable and trustworthy outcomes.

Researchers face ethical challenges in all stages of the study, from designing to reporting. These include anonymity, confidentiality, informed consent, researchers’ potential impact on the participants and vice versa. It seems of paramount importance that health care providers, educators and clinicians be well informed of all the different aspects of their roles when acting as qualitative researchers. Hence, these adroit roles need to be well defined, and the use of practical guidelines and protocols in all stages of qualitative studies should be encouraged.

Introduction

In the recent millennium, the constant trend of change in the demands of the community as well as transforming the trend of knowledge production has highlighted the necessity for researchers to adopt a more comprehensive approach. Increasingly, many academic disciplines are utilizing qualitative research (QR) as the qualitative method investigating the why and how of the process of a developed concept ( 1 , 2 ). Qualitative research is sometimes defined as interpretive research, and as interpretations can be incorrect or biased, the findings may be controversial ( 3 ). However, qualitative research is not only useful as the first stage of quantitative research, but can also play a key role in ‘validating’ it or in providing a different viewpoint on the same social phenomena ( 4 ).

Qualitative studies tend to use methods that result in text production rather than numerical outputs. Given that the researcher is considered to be the research instrument, and the plan of inquiry needs to be developed and altered as the study progresses, a qualitative researcher cannot depend upon traditional approaches to address certain concerns such as bias and credibility. Therefore, learning from a series of mistakes is often considered an integral part of qualitative research ( 5 , 6 ).

In this study, a literature review was carried out in international electronic databases including PubMed, Web of Sciences, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), Scopus, Ebsco, EMBASE and Science Direct without any time limitation, using the search terms “qualitative research”, “researchers’ role”, “ethical challenges” and “ethical guidelines”. These keywords were also searched on national electronic databases including Scientific Information Database (SID), Iran Medex and Medical Articles Library (Medlib) using the same strategy.

Authors of the present article endeavor to shine a light on the ethical issues affecting researchers and propose strategies to face the ethical challenges of qualitative studies, so as to provide applicable and trustworthy outcomes. This could be the basis for the formulation of specific ethical guidelines in this regard.

An overview on qualitative research in health care

Up to the 1970s, qualitative research was solely employed by anthropologists and sociologists. During the 1970s and 1980s, however, it was favored by various disciplines and experts of different branches of science and humanity such as health care, psychology , nursing, management, political science , education, and communication studies ( 2 , 7 ).

Qualitative research has been conducted in the field of nursing in order to identify, describe and explain related concepts, experiences and phenomena and to develop the nursing knowledge. Nursing professionals simultaneously introduced qualitative research to their peers. Since 1970, qualitative research has been performed to achieve the concepts of patient care and other main perceptions in the nursing profession. Qualitative studies provide nurses with sensitivity to the lived experiences of individuals from different nursing care aspects ( 4 , 8 ).

Role of researchers in qualitative studies

In the case of nurses who perform qualitative research, ethical issues are raised when the nurse-patient relationship in the research area leads to some degree of therapeutic communication for the participants ( 9 ). Thus, nurse researchers must be aware of the impact of the questioning on the participants, and in order to decrease such harmful effects on human subjects, the “reflexive approach” is recommended ( 10 ).

In qualitative studies researchers are often required to clarify their role in the research process ( 11 ). In the QR procedure the researcher is involved in all stages of the study from defining a concept to design, interview, transcription, analysis, verification and reporting the concepts and themes. Therefore, whenever instruments are involved in qualitative research, a human being will be an integral part of the process ( 12 ).

It is argued that humans have increasingly become the “instrument of choice” for naturalistic research due to certain characteristics: they are highly responsive to environmental stimuli, have the ability to interact with the situation, pull together different pieces of information at multiple levels simultaneously, and perceive situations holistically; moreover, they are able to process findings the instant they become available, can present immediate feedback, and feel unusual responses. Nevertheless, researchers need to improve the abilities that make them appropriate human instruments and consequently, their interpersonal skills are of major importance in natural settings and study processes ( Table 1 ) ( 13 , 14 ).

Researcher’s role in qualitative methods at a glance

Ethical challenges in qualitative studies:

The researcher-participant relationship.

The relationship and intimacy that is established between the researchers and participants in qualitative studies can raise a range of different ethical concerns, and qualitative researchers face dilemmas such as respect for privacy, establishment of honest and open interactions, and avoiding misrepresentations ( 19 ). Ethically challenging situations may emerge if researchers have to deal with contradicting issues and choose between different methodological strategies in conflict arises. In such cases, disagreements among different components such as participants, researchers, researchers’ discipline, the funding body and the society may be inevitable ( 20 , 21 ). Some important ethical concerns that should be taken into account while carrying out qualitative research are: anonymity, confidentiality and informed consent ( 22 ).

According to Richards and Schwartz’ findings ( 22 ), the term ‘confidentiality’ conveys different meanings for health care practitioners and researchers. For health care practitioners, confidentiality means that no personal information is to be revealed except in certain situations. For researchers, however, the duty of confidentiality is less clear and involves elaboration of the form of outcome that might be expected from the study ( 22 , 23 ).

The researcher must endeavor to minimize the possibility of intrusion into the autonomy of study participants by all means. When highly sensitive issues are concerned, children and other vulnerable individuals should have access to an advocate who is present during initial phases of the study, and ideally, during data gathering sessions. It is sometimes even necessary that the researcher clarify in writing which persons can have access to the initial data and how the data might be used ( 24 , 25 ).

Informed consent has been recognized as an integral part of ethics in research carried out in different fields. For qualitative researchers, it is of the utmost importance to specify in advance which data will be collected and how they are to be used ( 26 ). The principle of informed consent stresses the researcher’s responsibility to completely inform participants of different aspects of the research in comprehensible language. Clarifications need to include the following issues: the nature of the study, the participants’ potential role, the identity of the researcher and the financing body, the objective of the research, and how the results will be published and used ( 27 ).

Informed consent naturally requires ongoing negotiation of the terms of agreement as the study progresses ( 26 ). Many people consider it necessary to participate in research that their peers, community and/or society may benefit from. Therefore, qualitative health researchers need to clarify that the research they carry out will benefit science and can contribute to the improvement of health policy ( 5 ).

Research design

The qualitative method is utilized to explain, clarify and elaborate the meanings of different aspects of the human life experience. Therefore, researchers can interpret people’s experiences because they are involved in human activities. The principle of ‘no harm’ to participants ought to be considered by researchers, who should be aware of the potential harms that might be inflicted upon study subjects. Obviously, sometimes a conflict between the right to know (defended on the basis of benefits to the society) and the right of privacy (advocated based on the rights of the individual) may happen ( 27 , 28 ).

There are several effective strategies to protect personal information, for instance secure data storage methods, removal of identifier components, biographical details amendments and pseudonyms (applicable to names of individuals, places and organizations) ( 27 ). Researchers have the responsibility of protecting all participants in a study from potentially harmful consequences that might affect them as a result of their participation. It is getting increasingly common for research ethics committees to seek documented proof of consent in a written, signed, and ideally, witnessed form. Researchers can only do their best to protect their respondent’s identity and hold the information strictly confidential as there would be no guarantee for it otherwise ( 29 ). Furthermore, in investigations of sensitive topics where written consent puts the informants at risk, audio recorded oral consent would be more appropriate ( 30 ).

Development of personal relationships with participants may be inevitable while collecting certain data. Therefore, researchers should seriously consider the potential impact they may have on the participants and vice versa, and details of such interactions should be clearly mentioned in research proposals ( 23 ). Overall, the role of the researcher as (a) stranger, (b) visitor, (c) initiator, (d) insider-expert or other should be well defined and explained ( 3 ). As Brenner quoted Kvale state that, preparing an ethical protocol can cover issues in a qualitative research project from planning through reporting ( 30 ).

Data gathering and data analysis

In qualitative research, data are collected with a focus on multifaceted interviews and narratives to produce a description of the experiences. The researchers, therefore, play the role of a mediator between the experiences of the respondents and the community of concerned people ( 28 , 31 ). The post-interview comment sheet could assist the researcher to note the feelings of informants, as well as interpretations and comments that occurred during the interview ( 32 ).

Data collection needs to be as overt as possible, and findings should be recorded. Although there is no guarantee of absolute confidentiality, openly recording field notes assists participants to decide what they wish to have on the record. In health care research, the problem may be even more exaggerated as the researcher is sometimes the health provider as well ( 33 ).

In comparison with other research methods, ethnography has singular characteristics. When a researcher aims to study the culture of certain people, living amongst them is inevitable. This method of collecting data is a subject of debate from an ethical point of view. Long presence of the researcher amongst people of a particular culture necessitates informed consent. Participants should always be aware of the information that has been obtained and is being recorded, and consent to it. Sometimes this cannot be achieved easily and conflicts may happen, as in studies of cultural and ethnic characteristics ( 18 ).

The physical presence of the researchers within the culture requires them to be responsible for their role and potential consequences on the field. For instance, when criminals or a group of war veterans suffering from a disease are the subject of a study, the risks involved in living amongst them should be considered. Ethnographers must be vigilant about any distractions stemming from close interactions that can be potentially harmful to participants in the long run ( 33 , 34 ). Researchers can benefit from supervision sessions directed at learning, mentoring and skill development, all of which can foster their ability to carry out research without risking their health. Adequate professional supervision (which may be outside of the university) can be of service to researchers in dealing with the potential stress associated with the study ( 35 – 37 ).

In order to gain explicit data, ethnographers need to know the role of instrument details. There are eleven steps defined in ethnography which are meant to assist researchers. These steps include participant observation, ethnographic record, descriptive observation, taxonomic analysis, selected observation, componential analysis, discovering the cultural theme, cultural inventory, and finally writing ethnography ( 38 , 39 ).

Researchers should always be aware of the precise reason for involvement in a study in order to prevent undesirable personal issues. The probability of exposure to vicarious trauma as a result of the interviews needs to be evaluated. Interviewers should be properly scheduled to provide the researcher with sufficient recovery time and reduce the risk of emotional exhaustion, while allowing ample time for analysis of the objective and emotional aspects of the research. It is also necessary for the researcher to be familiar with signs of extreme fatigue and be prepared to take necessary measures before too much harm is done ( 40 – 42 ).

In qualitative studies, researchers have a great responsibility and play many different roles. It is argued that qualitative research that deals with sensitive topics in depth can pose emotional and other risks to both participants and researchers. Clear protocols for dealing with distress should be in place so that both parties involved in research can use them if necessary. It is not usually easy to predict what topics are likely to lead to distress, and researchers should therefore receive sufficient training in predicting traumatic situations.

Preventive measures for researchers who carry out sensitive qualitative studies should include official arrangements for a peer support program consisting of a list of researchers who are involved, or a constellation of researcher support activities aiming at improving psychological fitness in the form of a professional confidence building module. Other such measures include offering adequate supervision to provide opportunities for self-development and self-care, and facilitating the process of self-reflection and self-monitoring.

Strategies for emotional distancing need to be considered and adopted if the research topic or participants have the potential to be emotionally challenging. An appropriate planning should be in place before the commencement of the fieldwork, and it must be perfectly clear how the study should be conducted and what level of relationship development is necessary. Measures must also be taken so that levels of self-disclosure, objective displays of emotion during the interviews, and strategies to end the relationships are well defined and communicated.

One of the most prominent tasks of qualitative researchers is to minimize the flaws in observation and endeavor to gain truthful knowledge. Therefore, it is necessary for researchers to continuously update their investigation skills in terms of methodology and find novel techniques to better carry out studies in the field of health and sociology.

As explained before, qualitative research is carried out in natural settings, which requires researchers to work in close collaboration with other members of the team and under direct supervision to discuss and resolve issues as they arise. Therefore, development of practical strategies and communicating them to researchers can be of great benefit and assist them in conducting more perceptive qualitative studies. It is noteworthy that such research should be directed towards making a difference in people’s lives, improving care delivery in different settings and at all levels, and providing a framework for health sciences without any ethical disturbances.

As a result of the extensive body of research in the field of medical sciences, patients comprise a large proportion of the public who are frequently subjects of studies. Research Ethics Committees are formed to provide independent advice to participants, researchers, funders/sponsors and healthcare organizations on the extent to which research proposals comply with universally endorsed ethical standards.

In the history of social and medical science, there have been a few research studies that seriously injured people, and many more in which their welfare was not sufficiently protected. Nations and research associations have taken steps to prevent hurtful and intrusive research. To return to the matter of privacy, the researcher should not rely solely on the informant to identify possible intrusion, but needs to work at anticipating it in advance. Confidentiality does not necessarily preclude intrusion, as anonymity by itself is not enough to protect a person’s privacy or prevent disclosure of personal issues. Investigators should refrain from soliciting private information that is not closely related to the research question.

Considering the aforementioned challenges, it is recommended to conduct further research in order to provide meticulous and explicit ethical protocols, guidelines and codes with respect to qualitative studies.

Acknowledgments

The authors would like to offer special thanks to Dr. Ali Tootee for his assistance in the language editing of this article.

Ethical issues in counseling: a trend analysis

• Published: 20 October 2017
• Volume 52 , pages 223–233, ( 2018 )

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• Yağmur Çerkez 1 ,
• Gloria Manyeruke 1 ,
• Omotoyosi Oduwaye 1 &
• Stella Shimave 1  

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The purpose of this study was to examine research about Ethical Issues in Counseling published in selected professional sources and databases between the period of 1986–2017. The data on documents relating ethical issues contained in the Web of Science, EBSCO, Scopus, Taylor & Francis collected were analyzed using content analysis. Ethical issues, Ethical dilemmas and counseling psychology related keywords and phrases were employed together in the analysis of the documents. In total 157 documents were categorized among be relevant to Ethical issues and counseling and they were analyzed. The results reveal that 2010 was the year the most articles on counselling ethics were published. From 2014 to date there has also been a steady increase in articles on ethics in counseling. This is largely because of the increase in articles in counselling psychology as both developing and developed countries employ such research more to solve their social problems, indigenizing psychological research. The study also revealed that America produced more than half of the sampled articles (51.6%).

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Çerkez, Y., Manyeruke, G., Oduwaye, O. et al. Ethical issues in counseling: a trend analysis. Qual Quant 52 (Suppl 1), 223–233 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11135-017-0604-6

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Key things to know about U.S. election polling in 2024

Confidence in U.S. public opinion polling was shaken by errors in 2016 and 2020. In both years’ general elections, many polls underestimated the strength of Republican candidates, including Donald Trump. These errors laid bare some real limitations of polling.

In the midterms that followed those elections, polling performed better . But many Americans remain skeptical that it can paint an accurate portrait of the public’s political preferences.

Restoring people’s confidence in polling is an important goal, because robust and independent public polling has a critical role to play in a democratic society. It gathers and publishes information about the well-being of the public and about citizens’ views on major issues. And it provides an important counterweight to people in power, or those seeking power, when they make claims about “what the people want.”

The challenges facing polling are undeniable. In addition to the longstanding issues of rising nonresponse and cost, summer 2024 brought extraordinary events that transformed the presidential race . The good news is that people with deep knowledge of polling are working hard to fix the problems exposed in 2016 and 2020, experimenting with more data sources and interview approaches than ever before. Still, polls are more useful to the public if people have realistic expectations about what surveys can do well – and what they cannot.

With that in mind, here are some key points to know about polling heading into this year’s presidential election.

Probability sampling (or “random sampling”). This refers to a polling method in which survey participants are recruited using random sampling from a database or list that includes nearly everyone in the population. The pollster selects the sample. The survey is not open for anyone who wants to sign up.

Online opt-in polling (or “nonprobability sampling”). These polls are recruited using a variety of methods that are sometimes referred to as “convenience sampling.” Respondents come from a variety of online sources such as ads on social media or search engines, websites offering rewards in exchange for survey participation, or self-enrollment. Unlike surveys with probability samples, people can volunteer to participate in opt-in surveys.

Nonresponse and nonresponse bias. Nonresponse is when someone sampled for a survey does not participate. Nonresponse bias occurs when the pattern of nonresponse leads to error in a poll estimate. For example, college graduates are more likely than those without a degree to participate in surveys, leading to the potential that the share of college graduates in the resulting sample will be too high.

Mode of interview. This refers to the format in which respondents are presented with and respond to survey questions. The most common modes are online, live telephone, text message and paper. Some polls use more than one mode.

Weighting. This is a statistical procedure pollsters perform to make their survey align with the broader population on key characteristics like age, race, etc. For example, if a survey has too many college graduates compared with their share in the population, people without a college degree are “weighted up” to match the proper share.

How are election polls being conducted?

Pollsters are making changes in response to the problems in previous elections. As a result, polling is different today than in 2016. Most U.S. polling organizations that conducted and publicly released national surveys in both 2016 and 2022 (61%) used methods in 2022 that differed from what they used in 2016 . And change has continued since 2022.

One change is that the number of active polling organizations has grown significantly, indicating that there are fewer barriers to entry into the polling field. The number of organizations that conduct national election polls more than doubled between 2000 and 2022.

This growth has been driven largely by pollsters using inexpensive opt-in sampling methods. But previous Pew Research Center analyses have demonstrated how surveys that use nonprobability sampling may have errors twice as large , on average, as those that use probability sampling.

The second change is that many of the more prominent polling organizations that use probability sampling – including Pew Research Center – have shifted from conducting polls primarily by telephone to using online methods, or some combination of online, mail and telephone. The result is that polling methodologies are far more diverse now than in the past.

(For more about how public opinion polling works, including a chapter on election polls, read our short online course on public opinion polling basics .)

All good polling relies on statistical adjustment called “weighting,” which makes sure that the survey sample aligns with the broader population on key characteristics. Historically, public opinion researchers have adjusted their data using a core set of demographic variables to correct imbalances between the survey sample and the population.

But there is a growing realization among survey researchers that weighting a poll on just a few variables like age, race and gender is insufficient for getting accurate results. Some groups of people – such as older adults and college graduates – are more likely to take surveys, which can lead to errors that are too sizable for a simple three- or four-variable adjustment to work well. Adjusting on more variables produces more accurate results, according to Center studies in 2016 and 2018 .

A number of pollsters have taken this lesson to heart. For example, recent high-quality polls by Gallup and The New York Times/Siena College adjusted on eight and 12 variables, respectively. Our own polls typically adjust on 12 variables . In a perfect world, it wouldn’t be necessary to have that much intervention by the pollster. But the real world of survey research is not perfect.

Predicting who will vote is critical – and difficult. Preelection polls face one crucial challenge that routine opinion polls do not: determining who of the people surveyed will actually cast a ballot.

Roughly a third of eligible Americans do not vote in presidential elections , despite the enormous attention paid to these contests. Determining who will abstain is difficult because people can’t perfectly predict their future behavior – and because many people feel social pressure to say they’ll vote even if it’s unlikely.

No one knows the profile of voters ahead of Election Day. We can’t know for sure whether young people will turn out in greater numbers than usual, or whether key racial or ethnic groups will do so. This means pollsters are left to make educated guesses about turnout, often using a mix of historical data and current measures of voting enthusiasm. This is very different from routine opinion polls, which mostly do not ask about people’s future intentions.

When major news breaks, a poll’s timing can matter. Public opinion on most issues is remarkably stable, so you don’t necessarily need a recent poll about an issue to get a sense of what people think about it. But dramatic events can and do change public opinion , especially when people are first learning about a new topic. For example, polls this summer saw notable changes in voter attitudes following Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the presidential race. Polls taken immediately after a major event may pick up a shift in public opinion, but those shifts are sometimes short-lived. Polls fielded weeks or months later are what allow us to see whether an event has had a long-term impact on the public’s psyche.

How accurate are polls?

The answer to this question depends on what you want polls to do. Polls are used for all kinds of purposes in addition to showing who’s ahead and who’s behind in a campaign. Fair or not, however, the accuracy of election polling is usually judged by how closely the polls matched the outcome of the election.

By this standard, polling in 2016 and 2020 performed poorly. In both years, state polling was characterized by serious errors. National polling did reasonably well in 2016 but faltered in 2020.

In 2020, a post-election review of polling by the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) found that “the 2020 polls featured polling error of an unusual magnitude: It was the highest in 40 years for the national popular vote and the highest in at least 20 years for state-level estimates of the vote in presidential, senatorial, and gubernatorial contests.”

How big were the errors? Polls conducted in the last two weeks before the election suggested that Biden’s margin over Trump was nearly twice as large as it ended up being in the final national vote tally.

Errors of this size make it difficult to be confident about who is leading if the election is closely contested, as many U.S. elections are .

Pollsters are rightly working to improve the accuracy of their polls. But even an error of 4 or 5 percentage points isn’t too concerning if the purpose of the poll is to describe whether the public has favorable or unfavorable opinions about candidates , or to show which issues matter to which voters. And on questions that gauge where people stand on issues, we usually want to know broadly where the public stands. We don’t necessarily need to know the precise share of Americans who say, for example, that climate change is mostly caused by human activity. Even judged by its performance in recent elections, polling can still provide a faithful picture of public sentiment on the important issues of the day.

The 2022 midterms saw generally accurate polling, despite a wave of partisan polls predicting a broad Republican victory. In fact, FiveThirtyEight found that “polls were more accurate in 2022 than in any cycle since at least 1998, with almost no bias toward either party.” Moreover, a handful of contrarian polls that predicted a 2022 “red wave” largely washed out when the votes were tallied. In sum, if we focus on polling in the most recent national election, there’s plenty of reason to be encouraged.

Compared with other elections in the past 20 years, polls have been less accurate when Donald Trump is on the ballot. Preelection surveys suffered from large errors – especially at the state level – in 2016 and 2020, when Trump was standing for election. But they performed reasonably well in the 2018 and 2022 midterms, when he was not.

During the 2016 campaign, observers speculated about the possibility that Trump supporters might be less willing to express their support to a pollster – a phenomenon sometimes described as the “shy Trump effect.” But a committee of polling experts evaluated five different tests of the “shy Trump” theory and turned up little to no evidence for each one . Later, Pew Research Center and, in a separate test, a researcher from Yale also found little to no evidence in support of the claim.

Instead, two other explanations are more likely. One is about the difficulty of estimating who will turn out to vote. Research has found that Trump is popular among people who tend to sit out midterms but turn out for him in presidential election years. Since pollsters often use past turnout to predict who will vote, it can be difficult to anticipate when irregular voters will actually show up.

The other explanation is that Republicans in the Trump era have become a little less likely than Democrats to participate in polls . Pollsters call this “partisan nonresponse bias.” Surprisingly, polls historically have not shown any particular pattern of favoring one side or the other. The errors that favored Democratic candidates in the past eight years may be a result of the growth of political polarization, along with declining trust among conservatives in news organizations and other institutions that conduct polls.

Whatever the cause, the fact that Trump is again the nominee of the Republican Party means that pollsters must be especially careful to make sure all segments of the population are properly represented in surveys.

The real margin of error is often about double the one reported. A typical election poll sample of about 1,000 people has a margin of sampling error that’s about plus or minus 3 percentage points. That number expresses the uncertainty that results from taking a sample of the population rather than interviewing everyone . Random samples are likely to differ a little from the population just by chance, in the same way that the quality of your hand in a card game varies from one deal to the next.

The problem is that sampling error is not the only kind of error that affects a poll. Those other kinds of error, in fact, can be as large or larger than sampling error. Consequently, the reported margin of error can lead people to think that polls are more accurate than they really are.

There are three other, equally important sources of error in polling: noncoverage error , where not all the target population has a chance of being sampled; nonresponse error, where certain groups of people may be less likely to participate; and measurement error, where people may not properly understand the questions or misreport their opinions. Not only does the margin of error fail to account for those other sources of potential error, putting a number only on sampling error implies to the public that other kinds of error do not exist.

Several recent studies show that the average total error in a poll estimate may be closer to twice as large as that implied by a typical margin of sampling error. This hidden error underscores the fact that polls may not be precise enough to call the winner in a close election.

Other important things to remember

Transparency in how a poll was conducted is associated with better accuracy . The polling industry has several platforms and initiatives aimed at promoting transparency in survey methodology. These include AAPOR’s transparency initiative and the Roper Center archive . Polling organizations that participate in these organizations have less error, on average, than those that don’t participate, an analysis by FiveThirtyEight found .

Participation in these transparency efforts does not guarantee that a poll is rigorous, but it is undoubtedly a positive signal. Transparency in polling means disclosing essential information, including the poll’s sponsor, the data collection firm, where and how participants were selected, modes of interview, field dates, sample size, question wording, and weighting procedures.

There is evidence that when the public is told that a candidate is extremely likely to win, some people may be less likely to vote . Following the 2016 election, many people wondered whether the pervasive forecasts that seemed to all but guarantee a Hillary Clinton victory – two modelers put her chances at 99% – led some would-be voters to conclude that the race was effectively over and that their vote would not make a difference. There is scientific research to back up that claim: A team of researchers found experimental evidence that when people have high confidence that one candidate will win, they are less likely to vote. This helps explain why some polling analysts say elections should be covered using traditional polling estimates and margins of error rather than speculative win probabilities (also known as “probabilistic forecasts”).

National polls tell us what the entire public thinks about the presidential candidates, but the outcome of the election is determined state by state in the Electoral College . The 2000 and 2016 presidential elections demonstrated a difficult truth: The candidate with the largest share of support among all voters in the United States sometimes loses the election. In those two elections, the national popular vote winners (Al Gore and Hillary Clinton) lost the election in the Electoral College (to George W. Bush and Donald Trump). In recent years, analysts have shown that Republican candidates do somewhat better in the Electoral College than in the popular vote because every state gets three electoral votes regardless of population – and many less-populated states are rural and more Republican.

For some, this raises the question: What is the use of national polls if they don’t tell us who is likely to win the presidency? In fact, national polls try to gauge the opinions of all Americans, regardless of whether they live in a battleground state like Pennsylvania, a reliably red state like Idaho or a reliably blue state like Rhode Island. In short, national polls tell us what the entire citizenry is thinking. Polls that focus only on the competitive states run the risk of giving too little attention to the needs and views of the vast majority of Americans who live in uncompetitive states – about 80%.

Fortunately, this is not how most pollsters view the world . As the noted political scientist Sidney Verba explained, “Surveys produce just what democracy is supposed to produce – equal representation of all citizens.”

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Scott Keeter is a senior survey advisor at Pew Research Center .

Courtney Kennedy is Vice President of Methods and Innovation at Pew Research Center .

How do people in the U.S. take Pew Research Center surveys, anyway?

How public polling has changed in the 21st century, what 2020’s election poll errors tell us about the accuracy of issue polling, a field guide to polling: election 2020 edition, methods 101: how is polling done around the world, most popular.

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August 28, 2024

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Collaborative research cracks the autism code, making the neurodivergent brain visible

by Jennifer McManamay, University of Virginia

A multi-university research team co-led by University of Virginia engineering professor Gustavo K. Rohde has developed a system that can spot genetic markers of autism in brain images with 89 to 95% accuracy.

Their findings suggest that doctors may one day see, classify and treat autism and related neurological conditions with this method, without having to rely on or wait for behavioral cues. And that means this truly personalized medicine could result in earlier interventions.

"Autism is traditionally diagnosed behaviorally but has a strong genetic basis. A genetics-first approach could transform understanding and treatment of autism," the researchers wrote in a paper published in the journal Science Advances .

Rohde, a professor of biomedical and electrical and computer engineering, collaborated with researchers from the University of California San Francisco and the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, including Shinjini Kundu, Rohde's former Ph.D. student and first author of the paper.

While working in Rohde's lab, Kundu—now a physician at the Johns Hopkins Hospital—helped develop a generative computer modeling technique called transport-based morphometry, or TBM, which is at the heart of the team's approach.

Using a novel mathematical modeling technique, their system reveals brain structure patterns that predict variations in certain regions of the individual's genetic code—a phenomenon called "copy number variations," in which segments of the code are deleted or duplicated. These variations are linked to autism.

TBM allows the researchers to distinguish normal biological variations in brain structure from those associated with the deletions or duplications.

"Some copy number variations are known to be associated with autism, but their link to brain morphology—in other words, how different types of brain tissues, such as gray or white matter , are arranged in our brain—is not well known," Rohde said. "Finding out how CNV relates to brain tissue morphology is an important first step in understanding autism's biological basis."

How TBM cracks the code

Transport-based morphometry is different from other machine-learning image analysis models because the mathematical models are based on mass transport—the movement of molecules such as proteins, nutrients and gases in and out of cells and tissues. "Morphometry" refers to measuring and quantifying the biological forms created by these processes.

Most machine learning methods, Rohde said, have little or no relation to the biophysical processes that generate the data. They rely instead on recognizing patterns to identify anomalies.

But Rohde's approach uses mathematical equations to extract the mass transport information from medical images, creating new images for visualization and further analysis.

Then, using a different set of mathematical methods, the system parses information associated with autism-linked CNV variations from other "normal" genetic variations that do not lead to disease or neurological disorders—what the researchers call "confounding sources of variability."

These sources previously prevented researchers from understanding the "gene-brain-behavior" relationship, effectively limiting care providers to behavior-based diagnoses and treatments.

According to Forbes magazine, 90% of medical data is in the form of imaging, which we don't have the means to unlock. Rohde believes TBM is the skeleton key.

"As such, major discoveries from such vast amounts of data may lie ahead if we utilize more appropriate mathematical models to extract such information."

The researchers used data from participants in the Simons Variation in Individuals Project, a group of subjects with the autism-linked genetic variation.

Control-set subjects were recruited from other clinical settings and matched for age, sex, handedness and non-verbal IQ while excluding those with related neurological disorders or family histories.

"We hope that the findings, the ability to identify localized changes in brain morphology linked to copy number variations, could point to brain regions and eventually mechanisms that can be leveraged for therapies," Rohde said.

Additional co-authors are Haris Sair of the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine and Elliott H. Sherr and Pratik Mukherjee of the University of California San Francisco's Department of Radiology.

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