Using an Ethical Framework to Examine Linkages Between “Going Green” in Research Practices and Information and Communication Technologies

Publisher： IGI Global_journal

E-ISSN： 2155-6342|1|2|26-45

ISSN： 2155-6334

Source： International Journal of Social and Organizational Dynamics in IT (IJSODIT), Vol.1, Iss.2, 2011-04, pp. : 26-45

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Abstract

The link between “Going Green” in research practices and Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) is studied using general ethics and social psychology literature. This paper investigates and concludes that a researcher’s ethical judgment is the strongest factor influencing their intention to follow green research practices (GRP). Their ethical judgment is molded indirectly by the researcher’s attitude towards environmental awareness. Their intention towards GRP is influenced by existing research practices and experience in using a technology touted as a greening enabler, Web 2.0. The strength of the relationship suggests there is no pivotal turning point in the research practices to become green. This paper concludes that GRP represent a smaller, albeit important, paradigm shift affecting the conduct and dissemination of research with positive spillover effects for the environment.