Should scientists take a “Hippocratic”-style oath, to reduce dishonesty?
Just when doctors are abandoning the Hippocratic Oath because of its restriction on killing humans, some propose that scientists adopt a version of the basic idea. Others disagree: The authors suggest that researchers sign off on a number of statements, including: I will practice and support a scientific process that is based on logic, intellectual rigour, personal integrity, and an uncompromising respect for truth; And: I will never let the potential for personal recognition or advancement cause me to act in a way that violates the public trust in science or in me as a scientist. Fleischfresser outlines a number of such proposals in recent history and then quotes the current Oath’s critics: While Doherty reserves judgement on the idea Read More ›