Ethical dilemmas in practice

Definition

Ethical dilemmas in practice refer to situations where individuals or groups face conflicting moral principles that challenge their decision-making processes. These dilemmas often arise in various fields, including performance studies, where practitioners must navigate the complexities of representing others' cultures and experiences responsibly and sensitively. Understanding these dilemmas is crucial for maintaining integrity and respect in the practice of performance ethnography, as it often involves real-life subjects who may be vulnerable or marginalized.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ethical dilemmas in practice often involve balancing artistic expression with the responsibility of accurately portraying individuals' stories and experiences.
2. Practitioners need to consider the potential impact of their work on the communities they represent, especially when those communities may be marginalized or misrepresented.
3. Issues of power dynamics frequently arise in ethical dilemmas, where the researcher or performer may hold more social or cultural power than their subjects.
4. The need for informed consent is a key aspect of navigating ethical dilemmas, ensuring that participants understand how their stories will be used and represented.
5. Reflexivity is essential in addressing ethical dilemmas, as practitioners must continuously examine their own motivations and biases throughout the research and performance process.

Review Questions

• How do ethical dilemmas in practice manifest in performance ethnography, particularly in terms of representation?
  • Ethical dilemmas in performance ethnography often arise when researchers grapple with how to represent the stories and cultures of their subjects accurately. Practitioners must weigh the desire to tell compelling narratives against the potential harm that misrepresentation could cause to vulnerable communities. These dilemmas challenge researchers to find a balance between artistic expression and ethical responsibility, making it crucial for them to engage with participants in a respectful and informed manner.
• What role does informed consent play in addressing ethical dilemmas in practice within performance studies?
  • Informed consent is a fundamental component in tackling ethical dilemmas in performance studies, as it ensures that participants are fully aware of how their stories will be used. This transparency builds trust between researchers and subjects, allowing for more meaningful collaborations. By obtaining informed consent, practitioners can mitigate potential ethical issues related to exploitation or misrepresentation, while empowering participants to have a say in how their narratives are shared.
• Evaluate the importance of reflexivity in resolving ethical dilemmas in practice, particularly regarding power dynamics between researchers and participants.
  • Reflexivity is crucial for resolving ethical dilemmas because it encourages practitioners to critically examine their own biases and positions of power relative to their subjects. By being aware of these dynamics, researchers can make more informed decisions that prioritize ethical considerations over personal agendas. This self-awareness helps to foster an environment where participants feel respected and valued, ultimately leading to more equitable representations and outcomes in performance ethnography.

Related terms

Informed Consent:

A process ensuring that participants are fully aware of the nature of the research and their rights before agreeing to participate.

Cultural Sensitivity: The awareness and respect for the beliefs, practices, and values of different cultures, especially when conducting research or performances.

Reflexivity:

The practice of reflecting on one's own biases and how they may influence the research process and outcomes.