Ethics or moral philosophy is a aspect of philosophy that involves systematizing, defending, and recommending concepts of right and wrong conduct.
A british archaeologist and paleontologist named 'Charles Dawson' made some famous discoveries of new found species and named them after himself:
- Plagiaulax dawsoni
- Iguanodon dawsoni
- Salaginella dawsoni
And in 1912 he showed his newest discovery, a fossilied humanoid that was the missing link between humans and apes found in the gravel beds near Piltdown (England). The so called Piltdown Man (Eoanthropus dawsoni).
Up to 1953 the claims of Mr. Dawson was taken as correct and the truth. Specifically Mr. Arthur Smith Woodward of the Natural History Museum London defended the validity of the found.
In 1953 the student Joseph Weiner had doubts about the fossils, because some of it look not correct. In investigation with his Professor Wilfred Edward Le Gros Clark and Kenneth Oakley, they found that the skull was from a medieval human, the jawbone from an orangutan and the teeth from chimpanzee. The teeth were even hand filed to make them fit the skull.
Many professions in science have a formalized system of ethical practices. Nowadays it so rooted in their practice that most fellows of a profession do not have to think about it during their work. Because, that is how they work.
Ethics in science asks for integrity and honesty. Therefore scientists should:
- Correct and complete recording of the research done.
- Be honest when reporting data used in their research.
- Embrace independend analysis and interpretation of results and data.
- Seek for independend verification through peer-review.
- Be aware to weighing in the rights of human and animal.
- Properly give credit and naming of sources of information, data, ideas used.
I shall practice for the good of humankind, respecting human rights and the environment.
I shall recognize the responsibility for my actions, after informing myself to the best of my abilities, and shall in no case discharge my responsibilities on another person
I shall endeavor to perfect my professional abilities
When choosing and implementing projects, I shall remain wary of their context and their consequences, notably in their technical, economic, social and ecological aspects. I shall give particular attention to projects with military applications.
I shall contribute, to the extent of my abilities, to promote equitable relationships between people and to support the development of economically weaker countries.
I shall transmit, with rigor and honesty, to discerningly chosen interlocutors, any important information, if it constitutes a gain for society or if its retention constitutes a danger for others. In the latter case, I shall ensure that the communication yields concrete action.
I shall not let myself be governed by the defense of my own interests or those of my corporation.
I shall endeavor, to the best of my abilities, to lead my company to take into account the preoccupations of the present oath.
I shall practice my profession in complete intellectual honesty, with conscience and dignity.
I solemnly take this oath, freely and on my honor."