In recent years ever-increasing concerns about ethical dimensions of fieldwork practice have forced anthropologists and other social scientists to radically reconsider the nature, process, and outcomes of fieldwork: what should we be doing, how, for whom, and to what end? In this volume, practitioners from across anthropological disciplinessocial and biological anthropology and primatologycome together to question and compare the ethical regulation of fieldwork, what is common to their practices, and what is distinctive to each discipline. Contributors probe a rich variety of contemporary questions: the new, unique problems raised by conducting fieldwork online and via email; the potential dangers of primatological fieldwork for locals, primates, the environment, and the fieldworkers themselves; the problems of studying the military; and the role of ethical clearance for anthropologists involved in international health programs. The distinctive aim of this book is to develop of a transdisciplinary anthropology at the methodological, not theoretical, level.
"Ethics in the Field: Contemporary Challenges" delves into the complex and ever-evolving ethical considerations faced by anthropologists and social scientists engaged in fieldwork. Published by Berghahn Books in 2013 as part of the "Studies of the Biosocial Society" series (Volume 7), this book, edited by a yet unnamed group of leading experts, addresses crucial questions about responsible research practices in a world increasingly shaped by globalization, technological advancements, and heightened awareness of power dynamics. This groundbreaking volume confronts the ethical dilemmas inherent in fieldwork, urging practitioners to critically examine their methodologies, motivations, and potential impacts on the communities they study. Its more than just a theoretical exploration; it offers practical guidance for navigating the ethical minefield that fieldwork can become. The book uniquely brings together perspectives from across the anthropological spectrum social anthropology, biological anthropology, and primatology fostering a transdisciplinary approach to ethical problem-solving. Contributors share their experiences and insights, revealing the common challenges and discipline-specific nuances that shape their ethical decision-making. "Ethics in the Field" doesn't shy away from tackling the most pressing ethical concerns of our time. It delves into the novel challenges of conducting fieldwork in the digital age, exploring the ethical implications of online research, data privacy, and the potential for misrepresentation or harm through virtual interactions. Furthermore, the book grapples with the ethical complexities of primatological fieldwork, considering the well-being of primates, the safety of local communities, the environmental impact of research activities, and the potential risks faced by fieldworkers themselves. A thought-provoking section addresses the ethical quandaries of studying military institutions, examining the potential for complicity, the challenges of maintaining objectivity, and the responsibility to protect vulnerable populations affected by military actions. Beyond these specific contexts, "Ethics in the Field" critically examines the role of ethical review boards and the increasingly complex landscape of ethical clearance processes. It questions the efficacy of current regulatory frameworks and explores alternative models for ensuring ethical research conduct. The book also sheds light on the ethical challenges faced by anthropologists involved in international health programs, addressing issues of cultural sensitivity, informed consent, and the potential for unintended consequences in global health interventions. What sets this book apart is its commitment to fostering a transdisciplinary dialogue at the methodological level. Rather than focusing solely on theoretical frameworks, it emphasizes the practical application of ethical principles in real-world fieldwork scenarios. By sharing concrete examples and case studies, the contributors provide invaluable guidance for navigating the ethical complexities of research practice. If you are an anthropologist, social scientist, primatologist, student, or anyone interested in the ethical implications of research, "Ethics in the Field: Contemporary Challenges" is an essential resource. It challenges readers to critically examine their own assumptions, biases, and practices, and to strive for a more ethical and responsible approach to fieldwork. It's a must-read for anyone committed to conducting research that is both rigorous and ethically sound. This hardcover edition with 224 pages is the first edition from 2013.
