INTEGRATING VALUES OF INDIAN KNOWLEDGE SYSTEM IN ADDRESSING ETHICAL CHALLENGES OF SOCIAL SCIENCE RESEARCH

Abstract

Research in social science often faces ethical challenges, including informed consent, data integrity, cultural sensitivity, and community involvement. Although international ethical guidelines provide fundamental principles, they may not adequately address specific cultural issues in diverse societies like India. The Indian Knowledge System (IKS), based on enduring principles like Dharma (righteous duty), Satya (truthfulness), Ahimsa (non-violence), and Nishkama Karma (selfless action), presents a comprehensive and contextually relevant ethical framework. This paper examines how the values of IKS can be incorporated into research practices to improve ethical awareness, inclusivity, and fairness in social science research.