About this episode
The episode explores the complexities of conducting ethical research in sociological contexts, particularly involving prisoners.
What does it mean to undertake "ethical" research in complex and changing social settings? Marion Vannier, from the University of Manchester, uses diaries and letters written by prisoners in her research with older men serving life sentences. Her work, including ‘Project Hope’, offers an insight into the experience of ageing behind bars, showing how ideas such as “hope” aren't always a positive. She discusses the difficult questions about trust, representation and responsibility when putting prisoners’ own voices centre stage and in the public domain. Helen Busby is an independent research Ethics Advisor who has edited a new collection of essays Reframing Qualitative Research Ethics. She argues ethics cannot be reduced to fixed rules or procedural checklists, but are shaped by negotiation, reflection and the realities of research practice. The book brings together detailed case studies of dilemmas encountered in the field, alongside proposals for reform, including a more flexible review processes, discipline-specific approaches and a broader emphasis on research integrity. Producer: Natalia Fernandez Editor: Robyn Read
People in this episode
Guests: Marion Vannier, Helen Busby
Topics covered
- ethical research
- sociological research
- prisoners' voices
- research integrity
- ageing in prison
Keywords
- ethical research
- sociology
- prison
- ageing
- research ethics
- trust
- representation
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: University of Manchester
Books & works: Reframing Qualitative Research Ethics, Project Hope
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