The Politicizing of Science: When “Protection” of Subjects' Rights Leads to a Wrong

Abstract

Scientific inquiry is becoming increasingly under attack by political and legalistic forces. The ability to conduct survey research is becoming more difficult, and if the trend continues there will be little useful information available about the size and nature of social problems that affect the lives of many people. Current procedures for the protection of subjects in survey research are more than adequate and new restrictions are unnecessary.

Key Words:

• Written parental consent
• Subjects
• Risk
• Surveys