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International Society for the Study of Information (IS4SI)

Code of Ethics

Preamble

In an era where information is a cornerstone of societal development and individual empowerment, the International Society for the Study of Information (IS4SI) recognizes the profound and interdisciplinary impact of information on all aspects of human life. We are committed to fostering an environment where information is used ethically, responsibly, and equitably across diverse fields and perspectives.

Guided by the principles enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, we affirm that access to accurate and reliable information is a fundamental human right. We acknowledge the critical role of information in promoting transparency, accountability, and informed decision-making within a complex and interconnected world.

As members of the IS4SI, we are dedicated to upholding the highest standards of integrity, honesty, and fairness in our collaborative research, dissemination, and application of information. We strive to ensure that our work respects the dignity, privacy, and rights of all individuals and communities, considering the rich tapestry of cultural, social, and technological contexts.

Recognizing the diverse and interconnected cultural, social, and technological contexts in which information is produced and consumed, we commit to promoting inclusivity, diversity, and mutual respect. We aim to bridge the digital divide and advocate for equitable access to information for all, regardless of geographic, economic, or social barriers.

In our pursuit of knowledge, we pledge to conduct our activities with a sense of responsibility towards future generations, ensuring that the benefits of information are shared widely and sustainably. We are dedicated to fostering a culture of interdisciplinary ethical reflection and continuous improvement in the field of information studies.

By adhering to these ethical principles, we aim to contribute to the creation of a just, informed, and connected global society through shared knowledge and collaborative action.

Let us remember that the International Society for the Study of Information (IS4SI) was established to foster interdisciplinary research and dialogue on the nature, dynamics, and impact of information in various contexts. The society brings together scholars from diverse fields such as computer science, philosophy, sociology, and more, to explore the multifaceted nature of information. Over the years, IS4SI has organized numerous conferences, workshops, and publications to facilitate the cross-disciplinary exchange of ideas and promote collaborative research.

Among the Founding Principles of IS4SI are:

  • Interdisciplinary Collaboration: IS4SI emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary approaches to understanding information. It encourages collaboration among researchers from different disciplines to address complex information-related issues. For instance, the interplay of law, ethics, and technology in shaping information policies is a crucial area of interdisciplinary inquiry.
  • Ethical Considerations: The society is committed to promoting ethical research and practices in the study of information. This includes addressing issues related to privacy, data security, and the responsible use of information technologies within a global and interconnected context. To effectively navigate these challenges, collaboration between computer scientists, ethicists, and social scientists is essential.
  • Global Perspective: IS4SI aims to foster a global dialogue on information studies. It seeks to include diverse perspectives from around the world, recognizing that information issues are global in nature and require international cooperation. Understanding the cultural and societal nuances of information use necessitates a global perspective and interdisciplinary collaboration.
  • Innovation and Advancement: The society supports innovative research that advances the understanding of information. It encourages the development of new interdisciplinary theories, methodologies, and technologies that can contribute to the field. Breakthroughs often emerge at the intersection of disciplines, such as when human-computer interaction informs the design of ethical AI systems.
  • Educational Outreach: IS4SI is dedicated to promoting education and awareness about information studies. It aims to engage with students, educators, and the general public to enhance understanding of the critical role of information in society. Interdisciplinary education programs can equip students with the skills to navigate the complexities of the information age and become informed citizens.

By adhering to these principles, IS4SI strives to be a leading organization in the study of information, fostering a community of interdisciplinary scholars dedicated to advancing knowledge and addressing the challenges of the information age.

Below we will outline the IS4SI Ethical principles. We will pay attention to:

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The full text of the Code of Ethics is provided below.

  1. General Ethical Policies

The International Society for the Study of Information (IS4SI) is committed to fostering the ethical use, dissemination, and study of information. As information professionals, researchers, and practitioners from diverse disciplines, we uphold the highest standards of ethical conduct in all our endeavors.

Our General Ethical Policies establish a framework for interdisciplinary ethical decision-making and behavior, ensuring our work positively impacts society while respecting individual rights and dignity. These policies are rooted in the following core principles:

  • Integrity and Honesty: We conduct our work with transparency, accuracy, and honesty, avoiding deception. Interdisciplinary collaboration requires open and honest communication among researchers from different fields.
  • Respect for Privacy and Confidentiality: We safeguard personal information and use it responsibly, respecting individuals’ and communities’ privacy. Ethical considerations related to privacy and confidentiality intersect with law, ethics, and technology.
  • Equity and Inclusivity: We promote equity and inclusivity, valuing diverse perspectives and experiences. Interdisciplinary teams bring together individuals with different backgrounds and expertise, enriching the research process.
  • Accountability and Responsibility: We are accountable for our actions, considering the societal and environmental impact of our work. Interdisciplinary research often has broader societal implications, requiring careful consideration of ethical responsibilities.
  • Commitment to Excellence: We strive for excellence in research, education, and professional practices, continuously innovating in the field. Interdisciplinary collaboration can foster innovation by bringing together different approaches and perspectives.

These policies guide our members in ethical conduct and decision-making. By adhering to these principles, we cultivate a culture of interdisciplinary ethical reflection and continuous improvement, contributing to a just, informed, and connected global society.

  1. IS4SI Board Members’ Responsibilities and Duties

Board Members of the International Society for the Study of Information (IS4SI) play a pivotal role in guiding the organization towards its mission of advancing the interdisciplinary study and understanding of information. Their responsibilities and duties are underpinned by ethical principles that ensure the society to operate with integrity, transparency, and accountability.

2.1. Core Responsibilities of the IS4SI Board

Board Members are responsible for the following:

  • Governance and Oversight: Board Members establish and maintain the society’s mission, vision, and strategic goals. They oversee the organization’s operations to ensure alignment with its mission and ethical standards. Additionally, they set policies, approve budgets, and monitor the society’s performance.
  • Financial Stewardship: Board Members manage the society’s financial resources responsibly through budgeting, fundraising, and reporting. They maintain financial transparency and disclose any conflicts of interest.
  • Ethical Leadership: Board Members foster a culture of integrity and ethical conduct within the society. They make decisions in the best interest of the society and its members, avoiding conflicts of interest. Furthermore, they ensure accountability for ethical behavior at all levels.
  • Member Engagement: Board Members build strong relationships with members by listening to their needs and concerns. They facilitate interdisciplinary communication and encourage active member participation.
  • Advocacy and Representation: Board Members promote the society’s mission and values to the broader community. They represent the society at interdisciplinary conferences, meetings, and other relevant events. Moreover, they develop partnerships with key stakeholders across various fields.
  • Compliance and Risk Management: Board Members ensure adherence to legal and regulatory requirements. They identify and mitigate potential risks to the society.
  • Continuous Improvement: Board Members regularly assess the society’s performance and identify areas for improvement. They implement innovative strategies to enhance the society’s impact.

2.2. Additional Responsibilities

In addition to their core functions, Board Members hold specific responsibilities.

  • Fostering Inclusivity and Diversity: Board Members are committed to creating an inclusive environment that values diverse perspectives and ensures equal opportunities for all members.
  • Upholding Research Integrity: Board Members guarantee adherence to high ethical standards in interdisciplinary research and practice. They oversee the ethical review of all research proposals.
  • Promoting Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Board Members encourage and facilitate interdisciplinary research projects and collaborations among members.
  • Supporting Professional Development: Board Members stay informed about the latest field developments and contribute to the professional growth of members across diverse disciplines.

By fulfilling these obligations, Board Members enhance the society’s success, advance the field of information studies, and maintain the highest ethical standards.

  1. IS4SI Member’s Ethical Responsibilities and Duties

As members of the International Society for the Study of Information (IS4SI), individuals from diverse disciplines are committed to upholding the highest standards of ethical conduct in their professional activities. The following responsibilities and duties guide members in contributing positively to the society and the broader field of information studies.

3.1. Core Ethical Responsibilities of IS4SI Members

  • IS4SI members are committed to conducting research and professional activities with integrity and honesty. This includes accurate reporting of data, acknowledgment of contributions, and avoidance of plagiarism or misrepresentation.
  • Members respect the intellectual property rights of others by properly citing sources, obtaining permissions for copyrighted materials, and safeguarding confidential information.
  • A dedication to excellence is fundamental to membership. Members strive for excellence in research, teaching, and professional practice. They maintain up-to-date knowledge of field developments and continuously enhance their skills.
  • IS4SI fosters a collaborative and collegial environment among its members and the broader academic community. Members share knowledge, support colleagues, and engage in constructive dialogue.
  • Recognizing the importance of social responsibility, members ensure that their research benefits society and contributes to the public good. They carefully consider the ethical implications of their research and its impact on individuals, communities, and the environment.
  • Members uphold transparency and accountability in their professional activities. They disclose conflicts of interest and adhere to society policies and guidelines.
  • IS4SI values diversity and inclusion. Members respect and promote diversity within the society and the field of information studies. They appreciate different perspectives, foster inclusivity, and oppose discrimination.

The Core Ethical Responsibilities of IS4SI Members are crucial for the success of interdisciplinary teams. These teams benefit significantly from diverse perspectives and backgrounds.

It is essential to highlight that interdisciplinary research:

  • Often involves collaboration, emphasizing the importance of open and honest communication.
  • Frequently entails the integration of knowledge from different fields, necessitating respect for intellectual property rights.
  • Demands a high level of expertise and a sustained commitment to learning.
  • Thrives on collaboration and the free exchange of ideas.
  • Often has a far-reaching societal implication, requiring careful consideration of ethical duties.
  • Involves multiple stakeholders, making transparency and accountability fundamental.

3.2. Ethical Responsibilities for Scientists

In addition to the core ethical responsibilities, scientists hold specific obligations.

  • Research Integrity: Interdisciplinary research necessitates rigorous research methodologies and data management practices. Scientists employ robust research methods, conduct critical analysis of evidence, and accurately and comprehensively report findings in publications and peer reviews. Maintaining clear and accurate research records is essential.
  • Open Communication: Effective interdisciplinary collaboration requires open and honest communication among researchers. Scientists communicate findings honestly and transparently, disclosing any potential conflicts of interest.
  • Ethical Treatment: Interdisciplinary research frequently involves working with human or animal subjects. This emphasizes the importance of ethical treatment. Scientists protect the well-being of human and animal subjects, as well as the environment. They consider the broader societal implications of their research.
  • Inclusive Environment: Scientists contribute to fostering a diverse and inclusive scientific community by treating colleagues with fairness and respect. Interdisciplinary teams thrive in environments that value diverse perspectives.
  • Scientific Integrity: Interdisciplinary research demands adherence to the highest ethical standards. Scientists oppose unethical or illegal practices, uphold scientific codes of conduct, and report misconduct.
  • Societal Contribution: Interdisciplinary research offers potential for innovative solutions to complex societal problems. Scientists communicate scientific findings to the public and contribute their expertise to address societal challenges such as sustainability, health, and welfare.

By upholding these ethical principles, IS4SI members contribute to the advancement of information studies in a responsible and ethical manner.

3.3. Ethical Responsibilities and Duties of IS4SI Institutional Members

Being real institutional members, research institutions, educational establishments, governmental and non-governmental organizations and companies are in vital point in determination of the future of information. To facilitate that this advancement is done appropriately, IS4SI has developed organizational code of ethics and corresponding duties and responsibilities for institutional members.

  • Ethical Research Practices: The fundamental ethical duties of IS4SI institutional members is to contribute to ethical research. This means that every single research activity to be conducted should conform to the highest standards of ethics. This covers issues of permission and consent, participants’ welfare, and issues of confidentiality and privacy. Moreover, members should create an atmosphere that stimulates ethical practices in the dissemination of research works and discourages violations of integrity including plagiarism and/or fabrications.

After data credibility and data shield for participants, ethical research involves the appreciation of the social and ethical consequences of the research to be conducted. This comprises of concerns like prejudice, racism, and the odds of misuse of the research results. As well, some points which can be beneficial for members to pay attention on is the ethical use of information technology in research which include issues such as data privacy, data security, and data sharing.

  • Social Responsibility: IS4SI institutional members are under the obligation to ensure the delivery of good for society in whatever they do. This entails tackling social issues, advocating the common cause and making sure that their work is utilitarian in nature that is it benefits the society. Members should always endeavor that their carried out research activities are beneficial to society and in ways that are sensitive to the multiculturalism.

Another aspect of social responsibility is the implication of several adverse factors after conducting research and development and coming up with knowledge discovery and actively seeking ways of minimizing such impacts. As it is, it may involve coming up with standards on how the findings of a research should be utilized or even participating in the process of translating the findings of a research into practice. Besides, the members should carefully consider how their results can be misused or misrepresented, and how to avoid such issues.

  • Collaboration and Inclusivity: Equality, cooperation and integration are among the values on which IS4SI is built. This implies that members of institution are supposed to create environment where knowledge and resources are shared. This also involves collaborating with other members in the society, as well as with others outside the society, in order to develop information studies. Members should also fully integrate all social groups and guarantee that those groups do not have to face any limitations imposed by the members’ actions.

There is a need to encourage the kind of integration, cooperation, and assimilation of the study of information. As separate divisions and groups of members, we can also collaborate and promote diversity in the works that will be conducted to promote relevance, novelty and contribute to the improvement of society. Further, implementation of collaboration avoids biases hence, research works and findings show cases from more than one aspect.

  • Professional Standards: Being members of IS4SI, institutional members are required to conduct themselves in a very professional manner. It should involve compliance with the rules of the society as well as the codes of ethics, in their academic disciplines. All members should be professional, and treat members of the society, and any other persons of interest with due respect.

Professionals do not only embrace ethical conducts in the line of duty. Members should also endeavor to adopt high level of competence and expertise in the area of specialization. This may entail a variety of duties which include updating the knowledge of the discipline through literature review, engaging in professional development, and contributing to the scientific community through writing and presenting papers and other products that reflect Scholars’ best practice.

  • Continuous Improvement and Accountability: IS4SI institutional members, as active learners and doers, are expected to carry out practice development and take responsibility for their practice. This will include choosing their policies and procedures asking for their review from time to time, to ensure that new policies are more ethical than their previous ones. Members should also be ready to accept changes when the need arises in each team to deal with any ethical issue.

Responsible conduct of researching requires a process through which individuals will be held accountable for their work. Members should follow responsibilities for the actions done and to be open to the research details done by them. Also, members should accept public inspection and audit and definitely ought to be teachable.

  • Ethical Implications of Information Technology: Technological advancement in particularly the information technology has brought new ethical dilemmas for the researchers as well as institutions. It is important for members to understand the ethical usages of information technology coupled with the issues of privacy, security, help and access to information.
    • Data Privacy: Members should also observe the principle of data protection and hereby assure the appropriate collection, storage and use of data that cannot reveal the identity of individuals. This comprise with the following aspects; informed-consent, security measures, and following laws pertaining to data protection.
    • Security: It is the responsibilities of members to ensure that the data is protected against access or disclosures by others as well as alteration or destruction. This may employ the use of encryption, firewalls, and other security features in order to secure the information.
    • Accessibility: Members also feel that a conscious effort should be made to ensure that information from their research is available to a disabled person. It can range from offering different formats of research sources or the language used in writing inclusive terms.
  • Addressing Ethical Dilemmas: Ethical issues are generally a common element of research in most cases. Members should be ready to answer to ethical dilemmas of this type on behalf of the organization. In this regard it may entail discussing with co-workers, soliciting advice from ethics committees it may also entail being clear with interested parties.

In this way, ethically lobbyists of IS4SI institutional members such as these duties and responsibilities can contribute to developing information studies for the convenience of individuals and inside a moral manner. It would appear that they can assist in guaranteeing that information studies are utilized in a beneficial manner and individual and communal rights and freedoms are preserved. 

  1. Ethical Guidelines for the Summits

A steadfast commitment to the highest ethical standards is a cornerstone of the Summits. We uphold a comprehensive set of guidelines designed to cultivate a respectful, inclusive, and equitable environment for all participants across diverse backgrounds and disciplines. These principles are fundamental to establishing a platform for high-quality interdisciplinary research and meaningful dialogue.

4.1. Core Ethical Principles

  • Respect for All: Mutual respect and understanding are essential for successful cross-disciplinary collaboration. All participants deserve to be treated with dignity and respect, irrespective of their background.
  • Confidentiality: Sensitive or proprietary information shared at the Summits must be maintained in strict confidence. Multidisciplinary endeavors often involve the exchange of sensitive information, necessitating strict confidentiality measures.
  • Honesty and Integrity: All presentations and discussions should be conducted with honesty and integrity, avoiding plagiarism or misrepresentation. Collaborative scholarship demands the utmost adherence to academic integrity.
  • Equity and Inclusion: The Summits strive to promote equitable access for participants from diverse backgrounds and regions. Cross-disciplinary work benefits from a diversity of perspectives and experiences.
  • Harm Prevention: The Summits are committed to preventing harm to individuals, society, or the environment, including the prevention of misuse or abuse of information. Multidisciplinary studies often have societal implications, requiring careful consideration of potential harms.
  • Legal Compliance: Adherence to all applicable laws and regulations is essential. Collaborative projects may span multiple legal jurisdictions, necessitating compliance with various legal frameworks.
  • Peace Promotion: The Summits foster a culture of peace and avoids the promotion of violence. Cross-disciplinary dialogue can contribute to peace building and conflict resolution efforts.
  • Ethical Awareness: The ethical implications of the information society, including potential misuse or abuse of information technology, should be discussed. Multidisciplinary inquiry can contribute to addressing ethical challenges posed by the information society.

4.2. Summits Standards and Procedures

To uphold the quality and integrity of the Summits, the following standards and procedures are implemented:

  • Rigorous Peer Review: A stringent interdisciplinary peer review process is employed to assess submitted manuscripts.
  • Research Integrity: Measures are in place to detect and prevent research misconduct, such as plagiarism or data fabrication. Collaborative research requires robust safeguards to ensure research integrity.
  • Editorial Transparency: The names and affiliations of the Summits’ editors are publicly disclosed, along with contact information.
  • Financial Clarity: The publication fee for authors is clearly communicated.
  • Accessibility: The Summits are indexed in relevant databases to enhance discoverability.
  • Content Focus: The Summits exclusively publish high-quality interdisciplinary research articles.
  • Language: The Summits are conducted in English.

By adhering to these ethical guidelines and standards, the Summits aim to be a leading platform for high-quality collaborative research and constructive dialogue within the information studies community.

  1. Ethical Responsibilities and Duties of Summit Steering Committee Members

The ethical conduct exhibited by Summit Steering Committee members is crucial to the Summit’s integrity and success. Adherence to a robust ethical framework ensures that decisions are characterized by honesty, transparency, fairness, and accountability across diverse fields of expertise. These principles contribute to a respectful and inclusive environment while supporting effective governance.

5.1. Ethical Responsibilities

  • Integrity: A commitment to honesty and the highest ethical standards is essential for all committee activities. Such conduct is fundamental for collaborative endeavors.
  • Transparency: Decisions and actions should be transparent and open to public scrutiny. This approach fosters trust and confidence in the committee’s work.
  • Confidentiality: Sensitive information and discussions within the committee should be protected. Respect for privacy is crucial in collaborative undertakings.
  • Accountability: Committee members are expected to be accountable for their actions and decisions, ensuring alignment with the committee’s goals and ethical standards. Shared responsibility is inherent in collaborative work.
  • Fairness: Impartial treatment of all stakeholders, with respect for diverse viewpoints, is essential. A fair and inclusive approach is fundamental to successful collaboration.
  • Conflict of Interest: Potential conflicts of interest should be disclosed, and committee members should abstain from related decisions. Effective conflict management is crucial in collaborative environments.

5.2. Ethical Duties

  • Strategic Leadership: The provision of strategic direction to align the Summit with its objectives and goals is essential. Effective interdisciplinary leadership is crucial for the Summit’s success.
  • Decision Making: Informed decisions regarding the Summit’s scope, budget, and timeline are necessary. A collaborative approach to decision-making enhances the Summit’s outcomes.
  • Risk Management: The identification and mitigation of potential risks to the Summit’s success are essential. A proactive approach to risk management contributes to the Summit’s stability.
  • Resource Stewardship: The effective and efficient management of resources is crucial for the Summit’s success. Optimal resource utilization is essential for collaborative endeavors.
  • Stakeholder Engagement: The cultivation of strong relationships with stakeholders, addressing their needs and expectations, is essential. Effective stakeholder engagement is fundamental to the Summit’s impact.
  • Performance Monitoring: Regular assessment of Summit progress and evaluation of outcomes to ensure the achievement of objectives are essential. Continuous monitoring and evaluation contribute to the Summit’s improvement.
  • Advocacy: Promotion of the Summit’s initiatives and projects both internally and externally is essential. Effective advocacy enhances the Summit’s visibility and impact.

By fulfilling these ethical responsibilities and duties, the Summit Steering Committee contributes to a Summit characterized by the highest ethical standards, leading to a successful outcome.

  1. Peer Review Ethical Policy

The International Society for the Study of Information (IS4SI) is committed to upholding the highest standards of integrity and ethical conduct in all scholarly endeavors. The peer review process is fundamental to ensuring the quality, credibility, and reliability of research disseminated under the society’s auspices.

This Peer Review Ethical Policy establishes principles and guidelines for reviewers, authors, and editors involved in the peer review process. Its aim is to foster a review system characterized by transparency, fairness, and impartiality, while respecting confidentiality and intellectual property rights.

6.1. Key Policy Elements

  • Impartiality and Fairness: A review should not be written with bias and conflicts of interest from the person writing the review in question. Critique plays a major role in developing/ refining manuscripts.
  • Integrity: They should supervise their subordinates with one main aim of assessing their work based on merit. A potential conflict of interests should also be declared, and he or she should try to stay as neutral as possible.
  • Intellectual Property: Author’s property is protected by intellectual property rights, and the gathering of peer review info for pecuniary gain banned.
  • Confidentiality: Reviewers are supposed to keep information about manuscripts in confidence and not to disclose it to anyone.

Compliance with these principles protects the credibility of peer review and helps to build the body of knowledge in information studies. Lab policy promotes ethical practice and sharing of research information to better the academic society globally.

6.2. Summit Peer Review Process

Summit is committed to a rigorous peer review process to uphold the integrity of the academic record. Manuscripts are evaluated for alignment with submission guidelines and scope. Suitable manuscripts are forwarded to at least two independent expert reviewers for detailed, constructive feedback and recommendations. The handling editor, after careful consideration of reviewer comments, makes the final decision.

Confidentiality is paramount. The disclosure of reviewer or author identities, or details of the review process, is prohibited without mutual consent. This process ensures a fair, unbiased evaluation and maintains trust within the scientific community.

6.2.1. Each reviewer has the following specific ethical responsibilities and duties

  • Impartiality and Objectivity: The objective opinions are important. It should be understood that potential conflicts of interest have to be reported, and that a reviewer should step down where necessary.
  • Constructive Feedback: Still, focused and research-based remarks are useful when it comes to editing of the manuscripts presented.
  • Confidentiality: Manuscripts that authors submit should not be shared with anyone, and should be treated as confidential documents.
  • Timeliness: The reviews should be done according to a specified timeline.
  • Integrity and Ethical Conduct: Ethical behaviors at the highest level are expected. Use of other people’s work should be discouraged and stealing should be stamped out wholly, all intellectual property rights should be recognized and assured while Pass words and peer review information shall not be used for one’s gain.

This policy supports scholarly communication and protects the principle of peer review as the essential and reliable means to verify and enhance the quality of academic work.

6.2.2. Specific Summit Reviewer Commitments

  • The use of peer review information for personal or organizational advantage is prohibited.
  • Manuscripts should be reviewed within the reviewer’s subject expertise.
  • Peer review confidentiality must be maintained.
  • In cases of conflicts of interest, advice from the Summit editorial board should be sought.
  • Timely contributions to the peer review process are expected.
  • Reviews should be based on the merit of the work, independent of author characteristics.
  • Assertive, objective, and constructive feedback is essential, with avoidance of harmful or insulting language.

6.3. Specific ethical responsibilities and duties of the Editor

IS4SI expects all editors to conduct themselves ethically as the role players of guaranteeing the appropriateness of content produced in the academic realm. Editors are responsible for how review process is conducted, by making the decision on manuscript acceptance/rejection and enhancing the quality of the published research by verifying that the work is conducted to the highest and ethical standards.

6.3.1. Core Ethical Responsibilities

  • Impartiality and Fairness: The final selection process should be merited not influenced by the personal views of the ‘Editor-in-Chief’ or else influenced by self-interest. Helpful comments should be offered to the authors.
  • Integrity and Ethical Conduct: It is to be noted that acme has always been expected to work in the high ethical standards. The unauthorized use of other people’s work, original research, and ownership of ideas should be omitted. Ethical problems or any concern of unethical behavior should be detected and report.
  • Confidentiality: Author manuscripts must be considered as confidential and their sharing with people who are not involved in the reviewing process can be only done with authors’ permission.
  • Timeliness: The peer review process needs to be fast to allow fast research dissemination, and to maintain trust with the authors and reviewers.
  • Transparency: Policies and standards of IS4SI must be communicated effectively with authors, reviewers, and readers. This involves the guidelines for preparing manuscripts, the peer review system and management of conflict of interest.

In so doing, editors help to move knowledge forward and support the IS4SI values of integrity, fairness and excellence. This helps to safeguard the independence of editorial procedures and at the same time maintain its role of a competent filter and critique of scholarly output.

6.3.2. Editor’s Specific Duties

Editors are responsible for:

  • Identifying and recruiting authors, readers, and expert reviewers.
  • Researching peer review and publishing practices, and reassessing Summit processes based on new findings.
  • Reducing publication misconduct.
  • Ensuring that all publications are reviewed by suitably qualified reviewers and identifying non-peer-reviewed sections.
  • Regularly reviewing author instructions and providing updates with new guidelines.
  • Providing international standards for authors.
  • Selecting appropriate reviewers for submissions, ensuring they can judge the work without conflicts of interest.
  1. Ethical Guidelines for Authors

Summit is devoted to reviewing articles on academic integrity as noted, authors submitting manuscripts should abide by the following principles during manuscript production and submission.

7.1. Author Responsibilities

  • Ethical Research: It is important that the authors of original research adhere to codes of ethical practice in the conduct and reporting of the research itself, and of data, methods, findings and interpretations.
  • Originality and Plagiarism: It is mandatory that authors write their assignment compositions from scratch and adequately cite sources. Such things as plagiarism are considered a taboo.
  • Transparency and Disclosure: The authors are required to declare any of the conflicts of interest which may be financial, personal or professional.
  • Authorship: Authorship should be restricted to people who have real application to the conducted research. All affiliations and material contribution of the co-authors should be clearly stated.
  • Data Access and Retention: Reviewers should be ready to receive raw data whenever necessary and save it for a reasonable time after publication by authors.
  • Ethical Compliance: Any research needs to follow critical ethical standards necessary as related with human beings, animals, environment, and data security.
  • Timeliness and Responsiveness: It is important for authors to submit work early, and to engage early and professionally with the peer reviewers.

Compliance with these principles helps disseminate knowledge and aligns with the principles of IS4SI such as integrity, fairness and quality.

7.2. Specific Ethical Considerations

  • Data Access and Retention: Authors should be prepared to share raw data with editors and consider making it publicly available when feasible.
  • Reporting Standards: Research should be presented accurately, with data represented truthfully and in sufficient detail to allow for replication.
  • Originality, Plagiarism, and Citation: Submitted work should be original, and the work of others should be properly cited or quoted.
  • Multiple Submissions: The submission of the same work to multiple Summit publications or to copyrighted publications elsewhere is prohibited.
  • Authorship: Authorship should be limited to those who made significant contributions. The corresponding author is responsible for ensuring that all contributing authors are included and agree to the final version for submission.
  • Error Correction: Authors should promptly notify Summit of any significant errors in their published work and cooperate with corrections or retractions.
  • Copyright and Licensing: Summit articles are published under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0) license, allowing for broad dissemination and reuse with proper attribution. Authors retain copyright but grant others reuse rights with proper citation.
  • Accurate Presentation: Research findings should be presented honestly and objectively.
  • Authorship Criteria: All individuals who meet authorship criteria should be included as authors, with their specific contributions acknowledged.
  • Conflict of Interest: Potential conflicts of interest should be disclosed at the time of submission.
  • Data Integrity: Detailed methodologies should be provided, and raw data should be made publicly available whenever possible.
  • Simultaneous Submission: The simultaneous submission of the same manuscript to other publishers is prohibited.
  • Originality: Research results should be novel and not previously published. Plagiarism or duplicate publication is not tolerated.
  • Permissions: Permission should be obtained for the use of previously published content in the manuscript.
  • Error Correction: Any errors or inaccuracies discovered after submission or publication should be communicated to Summit for correction or retraction.

Non-compliance with these guidelines may lead to manuscript rejection, retraction, or other consequences as outlined in Summit’s editorial policies.

  1. The Standard of Ethical Responsibilities and Duties of the Publisher

IS4SI, as a society, adheres to the highest ethical standards as regards to all publishing related activities. Pursuing particular ethical obligations and duties is vital to the credibility, openness, and quality of the published scholarly production as a publisher.

8.1. Core Responsibilities of the Publisher

The publisher is committed to:

  • Integrity and Transparency: Ensuring that all published content is original, accurately reported, and free from plagiarism. Rigorous peer review processes and verification of data and sources are implemented.
  • Conflict of Interest: Reporting all levels of potential bias that can bias their work or their interpretations, financial, personal or professional.
  • Confidentiality: Preserving the submitted manuscript anonymity, disclosing data only to the corresponding author, reviewers, and the other members of the editorial board where necessary.
  • Ethical Oversight: Identifying and addressing ethical issues such as misconduct in carrying out a research, or fabrications and/or forgery in the study and its results. Formulating sound policy protocols when substantiated cases of misconduct are received.
  • Fair and Impartial Review: Screening the reviewers so that their assessments will be efficient and not contaminated by prejudice in any form.
  • Correction and Retraction: Implementing timely corrections, retraction or statement of concern for post publication very serious mistakes or ethical violations.

Compliance with these principles promotes integrity and scholarly performance in publication and helps society progress.

8.2. Summit Publisher Responsibilities

The publisher is committed to:

  • Defining Relationships: Clearly outlining the relationship between the publisher, editor, and other parties through contracts.
  • Respecting Privacy: Protecting the privacy of authors and peer reviewers.
  • Intellectual Property Protection: Safeguarding intellectual property and copyright.
  • Collaboration: Working closely with the Summit editorial team on editorial independence, research ethics, and transparency and integrity.

These additional responsibilities ensure that Summit upholds the highest ethical standards in its publishing practices. 

  1. Final Provisions

9.1 Approval and Amendments

The IS4SI Ethical principles and subsequent amendments were approved by a majority vote of the IS4SI Board and are effective from 01.01.2025.

9.2 Enforcement and Sanctions

Violations of the IS4SI Ethical principles shall be investigated by the IS4SI Board. Sanctions for violations shall be determined in accordance with the IS4SI Regulations, which may include but are not limited to warnings, reprimands, suspension of membership, or termination of membership.

9.3 Dispute Resolution

Any disputes arising from the interpretation or application of the IS4SI Ethical principles shall be resolved through mediation.

9.4 Public Accessibility

The IS4SI Ethical principles are publicly accessible on the IS4SI website.

9.5 Severability

If any provision of the IS4SI Ethical principles is found to be invalid or unenforceable, the remaining provisions shall remain in full force and effect.

 

IS4SI 2024

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