The Little Albert experiment, directed by John B. Watson and Rosalie Rayner in 1920, is known as one of the most ethically problematic studies in the history of psychology. Using the techniques of classical conditioning, the conductors of this experiment conditioned a baby to fear white rats, demonstrating classical conditioning in humans. However, this study raised questions about the ethics of human experiments, and the authority of scientists over their subjects.
At only 9 months old, Albert was shown multiple objects including a white rat, a monkey, masks, and a burning mask, showing no fear of any of these. When John B. Watson made a loud noise by striking a metal bar with a hammer, while showing Albert the white rat, he began to cry. After several pairings of the rat with the noise, Albert began to cry even
…show more content…
The Code emphasized consent, participation, and protection. This shaped the way scientists conclude the ethical considerations of their studies. The first principle of the Nuremberg Code, states that voluntary consent of the human participating is very crucial. This is critical since it recognized the idea of subjects make their own decision about their participation in the experiment. An individual has the right to control what happens to them, and without it, risks of violation can harm them. The fourth principle of the Nuremberg Code explains how experiments should be practiced in a way that avoids physical and mental suffering. This is essential because it recognizes the importance of reducing harm to research subjects. The ninth principle of the Nuremberg Code states that the researcher must accept the fact that the subject can withdraw from the experiment whenever they like. This recognizes that unexpected circumstances can occur during a study that may risk the subject of their