Question

which of the following is one of the golden rules of ethical conduct in social research?
a) never interact directly with research subjects.
b) never debrief.
c) always remain completely objective and neutral.
d) do no harm.

Explanation:

• Option a is incorrect because direct interaction with research subjects (e.g., interviews, surveys) is a common and often necessary part of social research.
• Option b is incorrect as debriefing (informing subjects about the research after participation, especially in cases of deception or to provide context) is an ethical practice.
• Option c, while objectivity is important, the idea of "completely" objective and neutral is not a golden rule in the same way as the principle of non - maleficence, and also, researchers' values and perspectives can influence research in ways that make complete neutrality an ideal rather than a golden rule.
• Option d, "Do no harm" is a fundamental ethical principle in social research (and research in general), ensuring that research subjects are not physically, psychologically, or socially harmed during the research process.

Answer:

d) Do no harm.