The Politicization of Research Ethics and Integrity and its Implications for Research Governance

Authors

Ian Slesinger & Kadri Simm

Description

This article examines the increasing politicization of research ethics and integrity (REI), particularly in controversial scientific and political contexts such as gender dysphoria treatment, climate change, pandemic responses, and reproductive rights. It highlights the growing trend of using allegations of research misconduct (RM) as a strategic tool to discredit researchers, institutions, or specific scientific viewpoints—a phenomenon further intensified by the immediacy and influence of online and social media. Drawing on three detailed case studies from the Horizon Europe-funded BEYOND project, the article explores how REI concerns are amplified and weaponized in public discourse. These cases—from Estonia, the UK’s gender dysphoria clinic, and debates over Low-Traffic Neighbourhoods—illustrate how REI allegations are increasingly subject to public scrutiny, often before institutional processes can adequately respond. It is argued that such shifts pressure institutions to act more quickly, often at the expense of thoroughness and fairness, and that social media plays a complex dual role in both enabling whistleblowing and escalating controversies.

In response, the article offers several recommendations for institutions and researchers to manage politicized REI environments more effectively. These include (among other recommendations) improved qualitative monitoring of REI cases, clearer communication distinguishing REI from political controversy, and transparent, well-resourced investigative procedures. The importance of distinguishing between research ethics and research integrity in institutional responses is highlighted, and it is suggested that different forms of misconduct require tailored approaches.

Slesinger, I., Simm, K. The Politicization of Research Ethics and Integrity and its Implications for Research Governance. J Acad Ethics (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10805-024-09563-2