Ethics in Social Science - Paper Example

1.(a). ASAs (American Sociological Association) Code of Ethics is a code for sociologists in the united states. It outlines the ethical standards and principles for how sociologists conduct themselves and go about their responsibilities. According to Wassenaar & Mamotte (2012), these standards are used as guidelines when sociologists are going about their day-to-day activities. This Code of Ethics contains some directive statements and offers the way forward on issues that these professionals may come across in their line of work. It is made up of an introduction, 5 general principles, a Preamble as well as specified ethical standards. It also has procedures and rules set up by ASAs Committee on professional ethics that outline how complain about unethical behavior should be filed, investigated and then resolved. These principles are not rules that are enforceable by the law. However, sociologists should consider them when deciding an ethical course of action. In addition, ethics bodies refer to them when interpreting ethical standards. All ASA members are expected to adhere to this code, and are advised accordingly once they join the association. Violating the code can result in imposition of certain sanctions that include dismissal as a member.

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(b). There are a number of ways in which the ASA Code of Ethics is supposed to be honored. For example, sociologists are expected to maintain a high level of competence in their line of profession. They should recognize the areas in which their expertise is limited and only carry out the tasks that they are qualified for in terms of experience, training and education. In addition, they are expected to consult with their fellow professionals whenever necessary in a way that is beneficial to their clients. Another way that sociologists are expected to honor the Code of ethics is by exercising high levels of integrity. They are expected to be fair, honest and mindful of others when going about their day-to-day professional activities. Sociologists do not intentionally act in a manner that is likely to jeopardize their professional welfare or that of others. They go about their businesses in a way that makes clients trust and have confidence in them. Sociologists are also supposed to be aware of their social responsibility. They have professional responsibility to the community they live in as well as to the society at large. They apply their expertise in a way that contributes to the good of the public (Wassenaar & Mamotte, 2012).

2. (a). Taoism is one of the most popular Eastern ethical theories. It is an ancient tradition of religious beliefs and philosophy that has deep roots in Chinese traditions and perception of the world. Ethics associated with this theory are not that concerned with doing good deeds. Rather, they are about people becoming good individuals who live in harmony with others. When it comes to decision making, the theory expects someone to see what best matches with the natural order of things. It involves always doing what events require, and not doing any more than is required. A person who practices Taoism is not supposed to initiate action but rather wait for events before taking any action. According to the theorys guidelines, a person should take action by changing himself or herself first; hence setting a good example of how to live a righteous life to others. People need to develop themselves in a way that their lives are in total harmony with the universe. Taking this action will change the world for better given that, when an individual treats other people well, the community responds by improving itself.

(b). An ethical code is a set of social guideline that are based on moral values and principles. On the other hand, laws involve certain rules and regulations on conduct that, if violated, have consequences and penalties. Ethics have no punishments, penalties or fines associated with them if an individual fails to adhere to them. While the two set standards on how the society expects people to behave, ethics offer social guidelines while laws enforce rules. Laws and ethical codes can be found in virtually all spheres of life. Often, they work hand-in-hand to ensure that people behave in a certain manner. According to Kuper (2013), they govern peoples actions while also coordinating efforts to protect the safety, welfare and health of the public in general. Most codes of ethics set up do not include penalties for instances of their violation. However, some individual institutions can decide to come up with disciplinary actions if rules governing the code are breached. It is important for social practitioners to clearly understand the law. Failure to have this understanding can make them have a difficult time doing their job properly. They will not be able to provide appropriate support and advice to clients. In addition, if they are not aware of the legal requirements in a certain situation, they will not be able to work effectively.

3 (a). It is important for a social science practitioner to have knowledge of multicultural issues in their professional practice. This knowledge can help them understand the experiences of clients from different cultural groups, and also know how to overcome communication barriers across various cultures. In addition, it helps the practitioners attain the abilities needed to make them culturally skilled. When a social practitioner understands multicultural issues, he or she is able to foster diverse opinions and ideas while also enabling cross-cultural communication. Given that their course of work involves serving the underserved, doing away with discrimination and dealing with social issues, it is crucial for them to have the right attitude towards multiculturalism.

(b). A social worker having an understanding of technology and how to use it is also important. A significant part of a social practitioners work involves face-to-face interactions with clients. Such interaction means they have to rely on technology to assist them manage time and serve clients even better. Technology is ideal for maintenance of meticulous records, project management and exchange of information across various social service organizations. For example, the use of online live chat platforms makes it easier for a social practitioner to meet with clients. In addition, it is more efficient since the practitioner will have to travel less often.

(c). Clinical supervision is known to benefit both the social practitioners and their clients. Hence, it is perceived as a crucial component social science as well as a core function of social services and practice. This highlights the importance of a social science practitioner having an understanding of the rationale for clinical supervision. A number of benefits are associated with this rationale for practitioners. They include an improved well-being, more confidence and enthusiasm, as well as a minimized risk of experiencing a burnout. By having knowledge of clinical rationale, a practitioner will attain better knowledge and more awareness on clinical problems and how to solve them.

References

Kuper, A. (Ed.). (2013). The Social Science Encyclopedia. Oxford, UK: Routledge.

Wassenaar, D. R., & Mamotte, N. (2012). Ethical issues and ethics reviews in social science research. The Oxford Handbook of International Psychological Ethics, 268-282.