Ethics in dental research. Toward developing a code of ethics.

A profession is considered to be ethical by its very nature. Hence, the ability to structure a set of principles that gives one a way to discuss the issues is crucial. However, numerous variables--such as culture, tradition of law, and stage of technological development of a Nation-State--confound issues in which principles may occasionally clash. There may not always be a right and wrong. Hence, for an international organization, a clear explanation of rules will be critical in the development of a code of ethics.