Ethical Considerations in Big Data Research Involving Human Subjects

Music City Center 

Technological advancements have enabled the collection of vast amounts of data on human subjects and their interactions, particularly through social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, WhatsApp, and TikTok. These platforms facilitate global communication and the sharing of personal information, but their use in research introduces complex ethical challenges related to privacy, consent, and data security. While Big Data and modern technology significantly enhance the efficiency and accuracy of statistical modeling and inference, they also demand careful consideration of these ethical issues. This conference paper examines the ethical complexities inherent in Big Data research involving human subjects, identifies key concerns, and discusses potential solutions, including the adoption of dynamic informed consent and the establishment of regulatory frameworks to ensure responsible and transparent use of social media data.

Big Data

Informed Consent

Human Subjects Research

Ethical Challenges

Social Media Data 

Privacy and Confidentiality Interest Group