We have noted the importance of the research community in supporting those who ask difficult questions. Our community of course is not perfect. Soon we will meet researchers who have observed every professional rule, conducted themselves in exemplary fashion, and strengthened the spirit of critical inquiry and mutual support that vital research requires. Unfortunately, however, we will also meet researchers who have broken the rules, engaged in morally unacceptable behavior, and harmed others in their community.

We will meet these researchers by reading their case studies, narratives of admirable and regrettable behavior. Our purpose is to empower you with the practical know-how to avoid misconduct, misconduct that very well might prevent you from reaching your goals, including acquiring your degree. Hearing about some of these researchers should also help you to answer the "Who cares?" question. Productive and valued members of groups, labs, and studios cannot pursue their projects in solitude. Working with others, however, also puts us at their mercy. If they decide to misbehave, we will suffer. Therefore, we all must care.

We do not claim infallibility in knowing how to build successful environments for every student, but we can introduce you to individuals who have helped to advance our community. And we can show you folks whose actions, intentionally or unintentionally, have deeply frayed the community's fragile, yet essential, fabric of trust. Despite the fact that you may be a newcomer, you cannot choose to play a passive role. You owe it to your colleagues to participate enthusiastically, positively, and in the scholarly spirit of constructive criticism.