Ethically responsible conduct in science

The German Basic Law grants research and teaching a high degree of freedom:

    "Art and science, research and teaching are free." (Art. 5, para. 3 GG)

This fundamental right to scientific freedom goes hand in hand with the responsibility to always keep an eye on the boundary between what is (technically) feasible and what is socially permissible and desirable.

It is not only legal regulations that limit academic freedom, but also considerations of scientific ethics: What are the consequences of my research activities - for example on social, technical, economic or ecological systems? Do I adhere to ethical standards during my work, for example when dealing with test subjects? What are the moral values and norms that I can - and want to - be guided by?

All scientists have a responsibility to address these questions in relation to their own research activities and to minimize unintended negative consequences of their own research activities as far as possible.

Guidelines

Ahe guidelines for ethical principles adopted by the KIT Senate provide guidance for all members of KIT. They formulate the ethical principles that are binding for KIT and the maxims for action derived from them.

Ethical principles

The ethical principles of KIT are as follows:

"We, the individual members and affiliates as well as the bodies of KIT, are aware of the influence of our work on social, technical, economic and ecological systems and the results arising from it within the framework of the freedom of art, science, research and teaching enshrined in Article 5 (3) of the Basic Law.

We bear responsibility for our actions and for the consequences of our actions. Our work should serve to gain knowledge, provide sustainable benefits for humanity and protect the environment, and pursue peaceful purposes.

We are committed to dealing with each other in a spirit of partnership, honesty and trust, regardless of position, origin, religion, gender and other forms of diversity.

We observe these ethical principles in word and deed."