DH Code of Ethics
This code of ethics functions as a place for not only frequently asked questions, but as a guide for dh creators and those who post or create materials on the behalf of others.
1. Access and Use
Equitable access and use are of the utmost importance when creating and sharing digital humanities projects. Projects should be easily accessible for not only academics but independent researchers, community members, anyone who may find the subject matter of interest.
This also includes making them usable for those with vision impairments, hearing impairments, and other persons who may find the means of accessing materials of this nature troublesome.
2. Acquisition and Collection Development
For those who choose to share, upload, etc. non-self created projects: There should be a clear statement of why projects are being created and/or collected, and why the specific person(s) and/or organization are seeking them out.
3. Authenticity and Trust
Users should be able to clearly see that the project is a reliable source, that the creators sought out trustworthy sources and were inclusive in their research. Trust must be established so that relationship building can occur.
4. Copyright and Permissions
Digital humanities projects (and similar documents) are charged with ensuring that they have followed the legal protocols for copyright. Without legally sought permissions from authors and creators of (related) works being incorporated, trust and reputation are broken.
5. (Digital) Preservation
Not only must projects be usable and understandable in the here and now, but in the future as well. Steps must be taken to ensure that the digital projects are preserved for future users.
6. Intellectual Freedom and Censorship
Authors and creators must not censor their work. Creative and novel ideas, as well as interpretations should be shared without any restrictions.
7. Privacy and Protection
Authors have the right to privacy and protections of their identity. Creators and collectors must be mindful of this in their work, ensuring that they are being respectful of and to the original owners of creative properties, etc.
Amber Sophia 