How the Atacama Skeleton Might Advance Discussion of Responsible Conduct of Research Responsibilities

Controversies resulting from genetic testing on skeletal remains of disputed stewardship raise important questions about obligations inherent researchers to assure ethical chain custody. In this article, we analyze and evaluate several proposed positions whether such research should be published. Following jurisprudential standards for legitimate regulatory systems, argue that responsible conduct requires reasonable attention custody but cannot require guarantees, particularly in cases ancient remains.