Chapter 7. Ethics and Privacy Considerations in Digital Humanities Computing
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7.1 Ethical Issues Surrounding Data Collection and Use
Data collection and use in digital humanities computing raise significant ethical considerations that researchers must address to ensure responsible and transparent practices. One key ethical issue is the protection of individuals’ privacy and confidentiality when collecting data, especially sensitive information. Researchers must obtain informed consent from participants, clearly explaining how their data will be used and ensuring anonymity or pseudonymity where necessary.
Another critical aspect of ethical data collection is the proper handling of personal data to prevent unauthorized access or misuse. Researchers should implement robust security measures to safeguard sensitive information, such as encryption protocols, access controls, and data anonymization techniques. It is essential to prioritize data security and integrity throughout the research process to protect individuals’ rights and maintain trust in the research community.
Furthermore, researchers must consider the potential impact of their data collection methods on marginalized or vulnerable populations. It is crucial to avoid reinforcing existing biases or stereotypes through biased sampling or discriminatory practices. Researchers should strive for inclusivity, diversity, and equity in their data collection processes to ensure fair representation and minimize harm to underrepresented groups.
In addition to privacy concerns, ethical issues also arise in the use of collected data for research purposes. Researchers must adhere to ethical guidelines and regulations
governing data usage, including obtaining appropriate permissions for secondary analysis or sharing datasets with other researchers. Transparency about data sources, methodologies, and limitations is essential for maintaining credibility and accountability in digital humanities research.
Overall, addressing ethical issues surrounding data collection and use requires a proactive approach that prioritizes respect for individuals’ rights, transparency in research practices, and accountability for the impact of digital humanities projects on society. By upholding ethical standards and promoting responsible conduct in data-related activities, researchers can build trust with participants, stakeholders, and the broader public while advancing knowledge in the field ethically