SECTION E: RESEARCH

E.1. DEFINITION

Astrological research covers the gamut from casual studies and anecdotal evidence to statistical research. The essence of ethical astrological research is the fair and accurate reporting of results. In general the standard rules of good scientific research apply.

E.2. REPORTING RESULTS

a. Information Affecting Outcome

When reporting research results, researchers explicitly mention all variables and conditions that may have affected the outcome of the study or the interpretation of data.

b. Designation of Data Sources

Researchers are required to report the source of their data including a citation of the collector's name as well as the original source of the birth record.  Researchers are required to use a source rating system similar to the Rodden rating system to indicate the reliability of the data.

c. Accurate Results

Researchers plan, conduct, and report research accurately and in a manner that minimizes the possi-bility that results will be misleading. They provide thorough discussions of the limitations of their data and offer alternative hypotheses. Researchers do not engage in fraudulent research, distort data, or deliberately bias their results.

d. Obligation to Report Unfavorable Results

Researchers communicate the results of their research whether or not the results were favorable.  Both positive and negative results help build the body of knowledge. Results that reflect unfavorably on institutions, programs, services, prevailing opinions, or vested interests are not withheld.

e. Identity of Subjects

Researchers take care to disguise the identity of their subjects unless specific written permission has been obtained. Identifying information about public figures, derived from the public domain, need not be disguised.

f. Replication Studies

Researchers are obligated to make available sufficient original research data to qualified professionals who may wish to replicate the study or do a meta-study. Secondary researchers should respect and maintain the anonymity established by primary researchers.

g. Statistical analysis

Researchers refrain from making definitive statements unless they have built a sound study with a proper control group and have taken into account astronomical variables. When discussing the results of informal research, researchers use qualifying words such as may, could, appears to, suggests or seems to.

Researchers recognize the difference between statistical significance and predictive significance when analyzing and discussing their results.  Statistical significance can come from a small differ-ence in the sample, which isn't useful in making predictions about individuals.