6: Scientific Misconduct

This chapter has two purposes: to show that scientific misconduct is a real problem in the chemical community, and to give guidance for the decision of whether an intended action in a research context is appropriate or not. The former has received a lot of media attention lately. More importantly, empirical studies on the behaviour of scientists have been conducted, so that data on misconduct is available. The more difficult question is the reason for fraud and misconduct. It is worth highlighting at least some of the motivations so that an awareness of them can protect from falling victim to them. The latter purpose is a matter of discourse. We will see how the science virtues can help one to make the right decisions for oneself, but also protect others from slipping into the dark side of betrayal and fraud by seeking goal-oriented mature conversations. Empirical studies have shown that training in research ethics doesn't make researchers commit less fraud. But whistleblowing does! Paying attention to one's surrounding and finding proper strategies to address misconduct is, arguably, the most efficient way to ensure the community's scientific integrity.