Ethics and Best Practices of Studying Contemporary Human Populations

Abstract

At the 2021 meeting of the American Association of Biological Anthropologists, the “Ethics and Best Practices of Studying Contemporary Human Populations” symposium brought together a diverse panel of scientists to address the growing concerns related to consent, communication, and ethical practices in biological anthropology research. Drawing from historical parallels and current practices, the panel underscored the responsibilities of researchers to engage transparently and respectfully with the subjects of their studies. This article summarizes some of the topics raised and debated at that meeting, including the specific challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the resulting surge in studies utilizing biological data from diverse populations, and the meaning of informed consent, genetic privacy, and data justice. The authors emphasize the importance of diversity and inclusion within research teams and leadership roles, and the role this can play in reshaping research approaches and fostering innovation in our field. They challenge the traditional notions of informed consent and encourage a more nuanced understanding that acknowledges the historical context and respects refusals as a form of knowledge production. The diverse perspectives shared at the symposium offer a glimpse into the ongoing efforts of biological anthropologists to navigate ethical challenges in contemporary human population studies. The collective aim is to spark sustained conversations and collaborative endeavors within biological anthropology and to promote continuous improvement in ethical standards and best practices.