General Terms

A formalized outline of the laws set in place by a collective. It is set to promote behavior that is better for the greater good and punishes any violations/undermining behavior.

Theory or system of moral values based off of fundamental human conduct.

Is a fundamental system that defines what actions should be taken by an individual when faced with an ethical dilemma.

Outlines and evaluates the various risks of an experiment to avoid ethical misconduct during the study.

Outlines and evaluates the various risks of an experiment to avoid ethical misconduct during the study.

An ethical approach that desires the most positive outcome, frequently contrary to the complexities and limitations of reality, and often contrary to pragmatism.

A system of rules and regulations set in place by a country/community/organization that recognizes and regulates the actions conducted by the members of the collective.

Standards of ethical issues arise in a tiered scale where some issues are at the individual level followed by at the agency level and finally at the global level.

An ethical approach that is based on the action taken by an individual, not the result. Also called duty based thinking, a person’s own beliefs, profession or discipline may inform what action they take, and may not always result in the best outcome. E.g., because the forensic scientist did not lie or falsify information, there was not enough evidence to convict the suspect.

An ethical approach that considers the complexities and limitations of a situation, frequently resulting in a less desired outcome, and often contrary to idealism.

General harm that may be inflicted on/experienced by the participants as individuals, as a result of the study. This must also consider any risks that the researchers face themselves by carrying out the study.

Series of questions, scenarios, and factors to consider when making a decision on an ethical act in forensic science.

An ethical approach that is based on the ultimate consequence of an action, restated as the end justify the means. This may result in a better outcome, but at the cost of one’s own values. E.g., the forensic scientist lied and falsified information, and this resulted in the suspect being convicted.

Breaching the policy of rules set in place by a collective that results in consequences (presented as punishments).