The overlooked need for Ethics in Complexity Science: Why it matters

TL;DR

This paper emphasizes the urgent need for formal ethical frameworks in complexity science to responsibly address societal challenges and prevent ethical dilemmas, drawing lessons from related disciplines.

Contribution

It highlights the current lack of ethical guidelines in complexity science and proposes a roadmap for developing ethical awareness and inclusive discussions.

Findings

Identifies the absence of formal ethical guidelines in complexity science.

Proposes a roadmap with specific recommendations for ethical integration.

Calls for inclusive dialogue and open resources to foster ethical practices.

Abstract

Complexity science, despite its broad scope and potential impact, has not kept pace with fields like artificial intelligence, biotechnology and social sciences in addressing ethical concerns. The field lacks a comprehensive ethical framework, leaving us, as a community, vulnerable to ethical challenges and dilemmas. Other areas have gone through similar experiences and created, with discussions and working groups, their guides, policies and recommendations. Therefore, here we highlight the critical absence of formal guidelines, dedicated ethical committees, and widespread discussions on ethics within the complexity science community. Drawing on insights from the disciplines mentioned earlier, we propose a roadmap to enhance ethical awareness and action. Our recommendations include (i) initiating supportive mechanisms to develop ethical guidelines specific to complex systems research, (ii) creating open-access resources, and (iii) fostering inclusive dialogues to ensure that complexity science can responsibly tackle societal challenges and achieve a more inclusive environment. By initiating this dialogue, we aim to encourage a necessary shift in how ethics is integrated into complexity research, positioning the field to address contemporary challenges more effectively.