An analysis of perceptions on the utilization of generative AI and its ethical limitations: Focusing on private security scholars

The advancement of technology is revolutionizing human life. Especially, the utilization of artificial intelligence influences a variety of social fields related to human life. This is equally true in the filed of private security research within the broader domain of public safety. The use of generative AI in research enhances not only the quality and efficiency of the research but also suggests creative solutions. However, social science research requires a highly cautious approach because policies proposed based on unverified research findings can lead to irreversible consequences. In this respect, research utilizing generative AI needs a higher standard of research ethics. Thus, this study aims to analyse the ethical perceptions of researchers in the field of private security in terms of the use of generative AI in their research and to suggest the measures of improvement. The current study conducted an online survey targeting authors who had submitted research papers after the introduction of generative AI services. We mainly used the frequency analysis to examine researchers perceptions and usage trends of generative AI. The results revealed that, first, researchers were aware of the potential for generative AI usage to lead to violations of research ethics. Accordingly, researchers recognized the need to strengthen research ethics. In particular, there was a strong opinion that establishing guidelines for the proper use of generative AI is urgently needed. Second, there was a strong recognition of the need for clear verification and documentation of the sue of generative AI to ensure the reliability and transparency of research. Lastly, it was suggested that flexible and comprehensive legal and policy frameworks should be established to align with the evolving research environment driven by technological advancements. We discuss the directions researchers should follow and institutional measures to be supplemented for the efficient and ethical use of generative AI in private security studies.