Learning from Buddhist Teachings and Ethical Practices in Qualitative Research

Abstract

This paper aims at conceptualizing research ethics in qualitative research with Buddhist teachings. As a Buddhist, I first introduce how Buddhism came to be central in my life and eventually influenced me as a qualitative researcher. I exemplify how the concepts of all-beings-are-equal, karma, the five precepts, and repentance might inspire a qualitative practice that centers ethics and informs a researcher’s interactions with participants. I suggest that researchers not only work on reflecting on their body (actions), speech (talk), and mind (thoughts) but more importantly, move beyond just reflection and reflexivity to facing and resolving “unwholesome” moments that may arise during the research process. I thus demonstrate how to repent in regard to one’s research-related actions, speech, and thoughts, with a particular focus on doing-no-harm and truthfulness. To illustrate, I offer an example from my own research that highlights how Buddhist teachings might be relevant in practice. My arguments aim to contribute to the literature on research ethics by introducing repentance by the researchers, alongside the Buddhist precepts, as central to ethical qualitative research practice.