For centuries, the scientist has been working for the welfare of mankind and will continue to do so.  A scientist is a person with expert knowledge of a science, usually physical or natural.  Today’s society is dominated by technology and with new technology; breakthrough discoveries are constantly taking place.  The scientist is in the forefront of many of these discoveries, and it is necessary to consider what responsibilities the scientist has to the society and world in they live.

One of the most important considerations that the scientist must have is knowledge of her/his geographical and political areas.  A scientist has an obligation to help those around who are less educated, and perhaps less fortunate.  In this case, it is necessary that the educated scientist be aware of the problems that affect her or his local area.  For example, in many places of the world where water sanitation is less than perfect, the scientist should focus on minimising that problem rather than something not linked to her or his environment.  I think that knowledge gives some power to the individual, and with power comes the responsibility to take care of others who are less lucky and less learned.

The scientist has the responsibility to publish and/or present her/his findings to the public to ensure that other scientists are able to research areas that have not been touched.  This also allows other scientists to use the most recent research to build upon other projects and narrow down their own research projects.  There is also a basic understanding that when taxpayers’ money is used to fund research in any area of scientific work, the scientist owes it to the public to make his results available through the scientific literature, so that duplication of effort and concurrent waste of public funds will not occur. 

An important responsibility of a scientist is to carry out experiments in the most efficient way possible.  The diligent scientist should manage his resources, time, money, and personal efficiently.  Research endeavours should have a detailed vision, and a step-by-step plan.  This allows the scientist to keep things on track, within budget, and accomplish goals in a timely fashion.  This encourages donors to give to further scientific research due to the through management of a scientist’s previous research projects.  One of the criteria that falls under this responsibility for a scientist is to always follow governmental regulations.  In this way, a scientist needs to regulate glassware disposal and toxic waste removal.  For example, the government would imply that a scientist should maintain proper care to animal subjects and use government funding wisely.  A scientist should look for ways to apply research to today’s world in an economically feasible way.  If it is not immediately clear how the research is applicable it is okay, but a specific goal should be in mind.  The criteria are efficient for the scientist’s research because if governmental regulations are not met, funding may be cut.