October 22, 2005
Revised March 18, 2023
Translated August 2024
The Japan Sociological Society (JSS) defines the basic principles governing sociological research and education, as well as the management of the JSS, and publishes them as the JSS Code of Ethics.
JSS emphasizes that adherence to its Code of Ethics by all members as essential for advancing the quality of sociological research and education, and for fostering public trust. Sociological research focuses on both individuals and groups. Therefore, members should respect the human rights of research participants to the fullest extent possible, while carefully considering the social implications. Moreover, when teaching sociology, ethical issues in sociological education and research should be duly considered in accordance with this code and highlighted to learners.
In recent years, major changes in the public perception of sociological research and education have occurred due to a heightened awareness of privacy and rights. If we neglect the basic principles of social responsibility and research integrity—such as respecting human rights, protecting the privacy of research participants, and duly considering the possible disadvantages—it becomes impossible to gain the trust of research participants and the public. Above all, members should be aware of their research purposes and methods, as well as the necessity and potential social implications of their work.
This Code of Ethics is crucial for enhancing the quality of sociological research and education and fostering innovative research. It strongly encourages members of the JSS to be aware of ethical issues in sociological research and education.
Members of the JSS should strive to maintain fairness and avoid undermining public trust in their conduct of sociological research and education, as well as in the management of the JSS and their professional social activities.
Members of the JSS should consider the ethical validity of their research purposes and methods, as well as their social implications.
Members of the JSS should highly emphasize protecting privacy and respecting the human rights of research participants when conducting and teaching social research.
Members of the JSS should not discriminate on the basis of creed, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, origins, nationality, religion, ethnicity, disability, health condition, family status, or marital status.
Members of the JSS should not engage in acts that constitute harassment, including sexual harassment and bullying, in the workplace or academic settings.
Members of JSS should manage their research funds appropriately.
Members of the JSS should respect the originality of research and refrain from infringing on copyright. They should avoid plagiarism and duplicate submissions.
Members of the JSS should be aware of the public interest in and social responsibility for their research. They should strive to publish their research results and consider their feedback for the research participants, communities, and society.
Members of the JSS should maintain an open attitude and strive to secure opportunities for honest and critical discussions among members.
