Paradigm for Enhancing Applied Ethics Research: A Case Study of Iranian Information Technology Ethics Research

Introduction: Given the growing societal demand for ethical research on applied issues, and considering that conducting such research—particularly when carried out by academic institutions—entails significant material and human resources, it is essential to critically evaluate and analyze existing applied ethics research in Iran. Such evaluation should address both the content and the research process, aiming to identify shortcomings and propose solutions for optimizing their impact. The ultimate goal is to enhance the effectiveness of these studies in raising ethical awareness, strengthening ethical motivation, and resolving or mitigating ethical dilemmas among their audiences. Since a comprehensive assessment across all domains of applied ethics is not feasible, the present article adopts a case study approach, focusing on Information Technology Ethics (ITE), with particular emphasis on cyberspace and artificial intelligence. A critical analysis of research in this field requires identifying deficiencies, understanding their underlying causes, and proposing remedial or mitigating strategies. The author has previously examined the first two aspects in a separate article; the current work presents a paradigm for enhancing the quality of IT ethics research, structured around three phases: pre-research, research, and post-research.
Findings: The findings of the present study indicate that addressing or mitigating the shortcomings and challenges associated with ethical research in our country necessitates the consideration of a set of strategic measures. These include: Establishing specialized centers for research in information technology ethics, Fostering systematic collaboration among existing research institutions in this field, Founding an academic discipline dedicated to information technology ethics, Training specialized researchers in this domain, Creating a comprehensive database and a communication network for IT ethics scholars, Enhancing international academic exchanges, Compiling authoritative reference resources for research, Conducting generative research based on the ethical teachings of Islam, Prioritizing interdisciplinary research initiatives, Incorporating foresight studies on the future of information technology ethics, Translating Iranian research into other languages, Launching specialized academic journals, Producing diverse and multiple outputs from research findings.
Discussion: Characteristics of an Ideal Applied Ethics Study: The hallmarks of a robust applied ethics study encompass the following: possessing scientific depth and content rigor; utilizing ethical theories, and preferably, the ethical teachings of Islam; adhering to the discourse of ethical science; exhibiting analytical, critical, and comparative qualities; prioritizing the needs, issues, and ethical challenges of contemporary Iranian society (while maintaining a perspective on global issues, particularly concerning emerging subjects like information technology and artificial intelligence); maintaining an applied focus aimed at resolving or mitigating harms and deficiencies; laying the groundwork for further studies and research; critically analyzing the existing literature on the subject; and demonstrating innovation by avoiding repetitive topic selection.
Necessary Steps for Improvement: To achieve an optimal state in line with these characteristics, three essential tasks must be undertaken: Identifying the shortcomings inherent in existing applied ethics research, Determining the factors and contexts that give rise to these shortcomings, Finally, proposing solutions to resolve or mitigate them. Case Study Selection and Focus: Given the impracticality of performing such a comprehensive analysis across all domains of applied ethics research, the author of this article has selected "Iranian Information Technology Ethics (ITE) research" as a case study. Furthermore, within the broad spectrum of technologies, the present written work focuses specifically on cyberspace and artificial intelligence. The rationale for selecting this domain is threefold: First, its emergent nature can serve as a model for researching other new ethical topics required by society. Second, it aligns with the author's specialized field of study and research over the past two decades. Third, there is a lack of similar work in this specific area. Scope and Objective of the Present Article: Among the three aforementioned necessary tasks, the author has previously examined the first two—namely, the deficiencies in Iranian IT ethics research and their contributing factors—in a separate article. The present article addresses the third task: presenting a paradigm of solutions and recommendations for remedying or reducing those deficiencies and enhancing the productivity of applied ethics research, with specific attention to IT ethics studies in Iran. Research Method: The research methodology is characterized as a content-based, library-analytical, and applied investigation