Voice of the Coast: A Review on Ethical Issues of Scientists Who Engage in the Sri Lankan Fishing Community

Introduction

As researchers engage with communities, such as the Fishing Community, it becomes increasingly important to comprehend and address the ethical dimensions of their involvement in social science research (Sarathchandra et al., 2018). When social science researchers study this small-scale representation of society, it is crucial for them to carefully address the ethical concerns that arise in this complex situation (Ahdan et al., 2019; Athukorala et al., 2021). This chapter explores the ethical challenges that researchers encounter when working with the Sri Lankan fishing community. It specifically examines the important aspects of cultural sensitivity, environmental impact, and the lasting effects of research efforts. The Sri Lankan fishing society surpasses the simple categorization of proficient sailors. The tapestry is a dynamic amalgamation of ancestral wisdom, convictions, and customs, harmoniously intertwined with the rhythmic movement of the waves (Béné, 2003). Fishing is more than just a job; it is a fundamental aspect of culture that influences personal identities, social organizations, and spiritual relationships with the ocean (Frangoudes & Gerrard, 2018). The deep interconnectedness with the environment intensifies the moral implications of research. The traditional fishing methods, developed and refined over centuries, are closely connected to the local ecological knowledge and sustainable practices (Sarathchandra et al., 2018). Regardless of good intentions, any study intervention has the capacity to disturb these fragile equilibriums, putting livelihoods and cultural survival at risk (Colwell & Axelrod, 2017). Adding to the complexity of the ethical situation are the economic circumstances of the community. The ocean serves as both a cultural identity and a main source of food and revenue for several families (Priyashadi et al., 2022). Research projects, especially those that have the capacity to impact resource management or policy decisions, may unintentionally provoke unforeseen economic repercussions (Koralagama, 2022). The ethical obligation, therefore, is to guarantee that research contributes to the well-being of the community, enabling their involvement in decision-making processes and ensuring equitable distribution of potential benefits.

However, the ethical considerations encompass more than just the immediate concerns of economic prosperity or cultural safeguarding. Research findings possess the ability to mould narratives concerning the community, potentially impacting their perception by both the wider society and the community itself (Sandaruwan et al., 2023). Responsible research entails guaranteeing data ownership and control, upholding the right to self-representation, and giving priority to community-driven research priorities. These components are essential not only to prevent harm but also to enable the community to actively participate in determining their own future. To successfully traverse this complex ethical situation, it is essential to adopt a thorough and sophisticated strategy. This chapter utilizes a theoretical framework that incorporates ideas of cultural sensitivity, environmental sustainability, and long-term ethical responsibility. This discourse rigorously assesses existing research methodologies and proposes adaptations to foster culturally appropriate and ethically sound engagement with the community. These improvements involve using reflective approaches that acknowledge the subjective nature of researchers' opinions and the power dynamics present in research interactions. Furthermore, there is a proactive endeavor to alleviate any biases. Moreover, the chapter promotes collaborative research approaches that prioritize the active involvement of the community and the exchange of knowledge. Through the active participation of community people in the design, collection, and analysis of study data, researchers can go beyond surface-level engagement and cultivate authentic partnerships based on mutual respect and trust (Smith, 2012). These partnerships also can collaboratively generate influential research that tackles community needs and goals, resulting in beneficial and enduring results.