Ethical issues in image-based research

Abstract

This paper provides an overview of current ethical concerns in image-based research. It considers the influence of institutional structures such as regulatory frameworks, professional guidelines and institutional review boards before focusing on issues of data collection and dissemination. The paper discusses informed consent, anonymity and confidentiality, specifically in relation to how they may differ in image-based compared to word-based research. It is suggested that a situated approach to image-based ethics is better able to take account of the concrete, everyday situations within which ethics are negotiated between researchers and research participants.

Keywords:

• ethical dilemmas
• image-based research
• research ethics
• visual ethics

Notes

^1. Researchers working in medical contexts, particularly in the context of a clinical trial, may have much less freedom to make decisions about ethical issues that arise and may be expected to refer all issues back to an ethics committee.