The role of ethics in unobtrusive research methods

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The role of ethics in unobtrusive research methods is not as obvious as the role ethics plays in other methods, such as experimentation. Emile Durkheim conducted the first major data-based sociological study on the topic of suicide.

What are the ethical considerations when undertaking unobtrusive research? What, specifically, should Durkheim have considered in doing his research? Can results of research have an ethical impact?