Ten simple rules for socially responsible science

Guidelines concerning the potentially harmful effects of scientific studies have historically focused on ethical considerations for minimizing risk for participants. However, studies can also indirectly inflict harm on individuals and social groups through how they are designed, reported, and disseminated. As evidenced by recent criticisms and retractions of high-profile studies dealing with a wide variety of social issues, there is a scarcity of resources and guidance on how one can conduct research in a socially responsible manner. As such, even motivated researchers might publish work that has negative social impacts due to a lack of awareness. To address this, we propose 10 simple rules for researchers who wish to conduct socially responsible science. These rules, which cover major considerations throughout the life cycle of a study from inception to dissemination, are not aimed as a prescriptive list or a deterministic code of conduct. Rather, they are meant to help motivated scientists to reflect on their social responsibility as researchers and actively engage with the potential social impact of their research.

Automated summary

Historically, guidelines for scientific studies have focused on minimizing risk for participants. However, studies can harm individuals and social groups indirectly through their design, reporting, and dissemination. Recent criticisms and retractions of high-profile studies highlight a lack of resources and guidance on conducting socially responsible research, leading motivated researchers to unknowingly publish work with negative social impacts. To address this, we propose 10 rules to help researchers reflect on their social responsibility and actively consider the potential social impact of their work throughout the study lifecycle.