ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Research ethics

Research ethics are a set of rules that scientists need to follow when they are doing research to make sure that their work is safe, fair, and respectful. Just like when you play games with your friends, there are rules that you all have to agree to follow before the game starts so that everyone stays safe and has fun.

One of the rules of research ethics is that scientists always have to tell people about their research before they start. If someone doesn't want to be part of the study, they don't have to be. It's like asking your friends if they want to play a game with you. If they say no, you can't force them to play.

Another rule is that scientists have to make sure that nobody gets hurt during the research. If there is a chance that something could go wrong or that someone could get hurt, the scientists need to take special precautions to keep everyone safe. For example, if you're playing a game and there's a chance that someone could get hurt, you need to make sure that everyone knows the rules and how to play safely.

Research ethics also means that scientists have to be respectful to the people who are part of their studies. They can't make fun of them or treat them badly. Just like how you wouldn't want your friends to be mean to you, scientists can't be mean to the people who are helping them with their research.

Overall, research ethics are about being fair, safe, and respectful to everyone involved in a research study. Just like how your games are more fun when everyone follows the rules, research is better when everyone follows these rules, too.