Promoting research integrity through the lens of virtue ethics and deontological approach

Abstract

Issues pertaining to research misconduct and/or breach of research norms and standards have recently come to occupy a central place in research activities. In this article, we argue that a moral character-based approach (Aristotelian virtue ethics) and a self-regulating approach (Kantian deontology) can play a vital role if incorporated in health research ethics training workshops for research ethics committees (RECs) and researchers. We are of the view that on top of what institutions can develop as their best ethics guidelines, policies and regulatory framework, they should also prioritise capacitating their RECs and researchers on virtue ethics to make them appreciate the primacy of virtuous character when reviewing protocols and during the conduct of research. We, therefore, suggest that capacity building through research ethics training should incorporate the moral theories focusing on self-regulating and acquisition of moral character because these moral theories provide the underpinnings of the moral basis in respect of humanity and dignity, integrity, attainment of virtues and development of moral character.