In this chapter we discuss the ethics of conducting social sciences research. We describe the major ethical problems involved and mention several of the ways that have been devised to protect the rights and welfare of participants in social sciences studies. We begin by presenting a few case studies as examples of how research methodology can raise ethical issues. We then discuss the core ethical dilemma of social scientists-the conflict between the right to conduct research and the right of research participants to self-determination, privacy, and dignity. A cost-benefit framework is offered as a guideline for making ethical decisions in specific situations. The importance of informed consent, as well as its dimensions, is explained. The right to privacy is reviewed, as well as how we can ensure anonymity of the participants and confidentiality of the information revealed. Finally, we present several code of ethics developed for social scientists.