Animal behaviour research is affected by researchers' assumptions and expectations, impacting how the research is conducted, interpretations of behaviours, the research questions addressed, and taxonomic representation. In addition, the choice of which animal subject to include is not random, as recently summarised by the STRANGE framework. The robustness of research findings can also often be unclear without replications and open science practices. Finally, like other academic fields, animal behaviour is also shaped by historical biases influencing whose research is recognised as influential and skewing the scientific discourse.
Recognising the impacts of these biases presents an opportunity for positive change. At the ASAB Winter Meeting 2024, we explore biases in animal behaviour research, and discuss a comprehensive system change towards fairness and inclusion of diverse perspectives. To ensure new insights and more robust science, this transformative shift involves evaluating community needs, fostering cultural changes, and implementing explicit policies.
We aim to publish a special issue with conference proceedings.