Analysis of Ethical Dilemma

Ethics in Research
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Ethics in Research
Ethics in any field is crucial as it governs decision dilemmas on what is right or wrong. In the area of research, ethics ensure that participants are treated with dignity, and the sponsor receives quality work (Dauphinée, 2016). In the scenario enumerated in the question, the primary researcher has performed an ethical violation in failing to recognize the contribution of his research assistants. Morality dictates that one should appreciate any help accorded. Failure of the primary researcher to acknowledge his assistants, demonstrates a sense of entitlement which is not good in the field of research as it inhibits future cooperation.
Through his actions, the primary researcher is guilty of academic dishonesty. Readers of his researcher work deserve to know the names of individuals who made the project a success. The work of the research assistants in data collection and preparation of the final reports must never go unnoticed. The primary researcher will continue to receive undeserved credit from various quarters. Plagiarism forms a grave offense in the course of research. Plagiarism involves the use of the research work of another author without adequate acknowledgment (Ercegovac & Richardson, 2014). In essence, an individual personalizes the work of another individual. The primary researcher may have committed this offense by incorporating discussion sections and thoughts of the research assistants in the final draft without acknowledgment.

In conclusion, the actions of the primary researcher constitute a significant violation of the ethical code. Researchers should at all times be willing to share credit for activities undertaken mutually. Failure to appreciate others limits teamwork in future research endeavors which hampers progress in the academic field. Adherence to ethical principles is thus critical as it protects the rights of all participants involved.
References
Dauphinée, E. (2016). The importance of ethics in research. Business Research Journal.
Ercegovac, Z., & Richardson, J. V. (2014). Academic dishonesty, plagiarism included, in the digital age: A literature review. College & Research Libraries, 65(4), 301-318.