Academic

In the rapidly transforming world of academia, where research serves as the foundation of innovation and intellectual advancement, the integrity of scholarly work has never been more crucial. Research and Publication Ethics emerges as a timely and comprehensive text designed to strengthen the moral, professional, and intellectual framework of research practice. The purpose of this book is to nurture an ethical research culture among scholars, academicians, and practitioners by providing a deep and structured understanding of the principles that govern responsible research and publication. This book systematically explores the philosophical underpinnings, ethical theories, and professional guidelines that shape contemporary research ethics. It encompasses a wide spectrum of themes, including academic integrity, plagiarism, authorship ethics, peer review systems, conflicts of interest, data management, and publication ethics. In addition, it addresses emerging concerns in the digital era—such as artificial intelligence, open science, big data analytics, biotechnology, and predatory publishing—offering readers a holistic view of how ethical frameworks evolve in response to technological and global academic transformations. Each unit of this book has been designed to blend theoretical insights with practical implications, supported by case studies, reflective exercises, and global guidelines such as COPE, ICMJE, and UGC regulations. The authors of this volume collectively represent a distinguished blend of academic excellence, research expertise, and professional experience. Prof. (Dr.) Dileep Kumar M, International Research Fellow at SEGi University, Kuala Lumpur, and Vice Chancellor of Hensard University, Nigeria, brings to this book over two decades of global academic leadership and scholarly contribution in strategic management, entrepreneurship, and organizational behavior. Dr. Normala S. Govindarajo, Associate Professor at HELP University, Malaysia, adds depth with her dual doctoral expertise in Management and Human Resource, her extensive body of published work, and her interdisciplinary engagement with technology and professional ethics. Dr. Vijyata, Assistant Professor at ARKA Jain University, Jamshedpur, contributes her profound academic insight, rich teaching experience, and scholarly contributions in research methodology, marketing, and digital transformation, reflecting a strong commitment to ethical scholarship and sustainability. Mrs. Princia Stivenson Coutinho, Assistant Professor at VIVA College of Arts, Science and Commerce, Mumbai University, lends her deep expertise in commerce, financial accounting, and corporate governance, bridging ethical theory with real-world application in finance and business ethics. This collective endeavor reflects the authors’ shared vision—to cultivate awareness, accountability, and integrity among current and future researchers. By synthesizing both classical theories and modern frameworks, the book provides a strong ethical foundation necessary for conducting credible, transparent, and socially responsible research. It is hoped that Research and Publication Ethics will serve as a comprehensive guide for students, faculty members, and researchers across disciplines, fostering a scholarly ecosystem grounded in honesty, fairness, and professional excellence. The authors express their sincere gratitude to their respective institutions and peers whose encouragement and collaboration made this work possible. May this book inspire every reader to uphold the sanctity of research and contribute meaningfully to the global pursuit of knowledge rooted in ethical responsibility. Prof. (Dr.) Dileep Kumar M Dr. Normala S. Govindarajo, Dr. Vijyata Mrs. Princia Stivenson Coutinho