Should ethical researchers avoid political controversy by sidestepping media outlets for their work? Why or Why not? What were Wilson’s (1998) principles for engaging the public through the media?

What will be an ideal response?


Even following appropriate guidelines such as these, however, will not prevent controversy and conflict over research on sensitive issues. Does this mean that ethical researchers should avoid political controversy by sidestepping media outlets for their work? Many social scientists argue that the media offer one of the best ways to communicate the practical application of sociological knowledge and that when we avoid these opportunities, “some of the best sociological insights never reach policy makers because sociologists seldom take advantage of useful mechanisms to get their ideas out” (Wilson, 1998, p. 435).
The sociologist William Julius Wilson (1998) urges the following principles for engaging the public through the media:
1. Focus on issues of national concern, issues that are high on the public agenda.
2. Develop creative and thoughtful arguments that are clearly presented and devoid of technical language.
3. Present the big picture whereby the arguments are organized and presented so that the readers can see how the various parts are interrelated.
Ultimately, each researcher must make a decision about the most appropriate and important outlets for his or her work.

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The _____________ is said to be responsible for both the decision to charge and the severity of the charge as it relates to racial minorities committing offenses against whites

Fill in the blank(s) with correct word

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a. True b. False

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List and discuss several community crime-prevention strategies

What will be an ideal response?

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What did the court forbid in Delaware v. Prouse regarding police practice during roadblock searches

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