Module 5 Case

Module 5 Case

Ethical Principles

Whenever a person produces material for publication, that material becomes his if another person takes credit for the work, it would be against the codes of ethics. Even if permission is granted, it is not acceptable to gain credit for something one has never done. In the case Alyssa and Ben, Alyssa is fully responsible for the work as she is the only author. However, Ben tries to gain credit by asking to put his name as a co-author. This is against the laws of ethics as it falsely represents the authors. Ethics strictly forbids taking credit for work that was never performed by an individual. Ben could have mentioned his name as a co-author if he has responded to any of the updates of Alyssa and assisted her in the completion of the work (Kass, 2001).

Considering that Ben did not assist Alyssa in any aspect, he cannot claim any credit for the work. Even if Alyssa needs assistance in order to get her work submitted, adding the name of Ben as a co-author is not relevant and should be avoided at all costs. Ben himself has already committed an ethical mistake by proposing to include his name as a co-writer.

Possible Actions

Alyssa wishes to submit a paper to a conference but cannot do so because the conference requires the original author to be present. However, Alyssa cannot afford the trip due to which she asked Ben to try to submit the paper on her behalf. Ben is not allowed by the conference to submit the paper due to which he proposes a solution to Alyssa. The solution is that Ben would mention his name as one of the co-authors due which would enable him to submit the paper.

The actions of Ben are unacceptable and Alyssa should ...