This article explores the tenets of the responsible conduct of research. The proper treatment of human and animal subjects, recognition and avoidance of conflicts of interest, management of data to ensure privacy and confidentiality, authorship, academic freedom, and scientific misconduct are discussed. Historically significant events that have influenced the ethical climate, along with a review of guiding principles and regulations that define the conduct of ethical research are presented. Circumstances more specific to emergency medicine are examined in detail to provide meaningful guidance to practicing emergency medicine researchers.