A researcher studies speeding on urban expressways by using a small radar gun to detect speeders, while an assistant records the license plate numbers of cars traveling more than 10 miles per hour over the posted limit. The speeders' addresses are traced, and they receive a mailed questionnaire with a cover letter beginning "You were observed traveling more than 10 miles per hour over the speed limit on [date and location]."
Post your thoughts to the following questions:Can you see the ethical issue in the situation? Explain.
How do you feel about it?
Are the procedures described ultimately acceptable or unacceptable?