American Society of Naturalists

A membership society whose goal is to advance and to diffuse knowledge of organic evolution and other broad biological principles so as to enhance the conceptual unification of the biological sciences.

Code of Ethics Comment Period

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The evolution societies (ASN, SSE, SSB) have been working since 2018 to establish Codes of Ethics that define acceptable and unacceptable behavior for members and professional partners. The Evolution Meeting Code of Conduct (q.v.) was a critical first step, but does not cover conduct outside of the meeting itself. Adopting Codes of Ethics will allow the societies to establish explicit standards of excellence and a transparent process for upholding these standards, and in so doing, foster societies that are welcoming for everyone.

The ASN Executive Council now has approved a draft Code of Ethics based on a general code developed by a tri-society committee, along with legal advice. The societies worked together on language and have coordinated timing of presentation, but each society has its own Code and independent procedures. Before the ASN Code of Ethics is put into place, we are seeking our members’ feedback and approval. We invite you to visit the Code of Ethics website, review the standards of conduct and processes for enforcement, ask any questions you may have, and give your feedback before March 7, 2022. Thank you for your participation!