The ASA Committee on Professional Ethics seeks input on the Ethical Guidelines for Statistical Practice, which are permanently linked here:
http://www.amstat.org/ASA/Your-Career/Ethical-Guidelines-for-Statistical-Practice.aspx
If you would like to contribute a recommendation for revision to the Guidelines, or for a comment for the linked discussion, we have created discussion threads for each of the Guidelines' individual principles. Please comment on the principle(s) most directly related to your suggestion(s).
Your suggestions should be as specific and complete as possible so that the Committee or its designated Working Group can review and consider your suggestions and input. All suggestions received through these discussion threads will be considered by the Committee.
The ethical statistician understands the differences between questionable statistical, scientific, or professional practices and practices that constitute misconduct. The ethical statistician avoids all of the above and knows how each should be handled.
The ethical statistician:
- Avoids condoning or appearing to condone statistical, scientific, or professional misconduct.
- Recognizes that differences of opinion and honest error do not constitute misconduct; they warrant discussion, but not accusation.
- Knows the definitions of, and procedures relating to, misconduct. If involved in a misconduct investigation, follows prescribed procedures.
- Maintains confidentiality during an investigation, but discloses the investigation results honestly to appropriate parties and stakeholders once they are available.
- Following an investigation of misconduct, supports the appropriate efforts of all involved, including those reporting the possible scientific error or misconduct, to resume their careers in as normal a manner as possible.
- Avoids, and acts to discourage, retaliation against or damage to the employability of those who responsibly call attention to possible scientific error or to scientific or other professional misconduct.