Questions of Responsibility: Modelling in the Age of COVID-19

Abstract: When conducting COVID-19-related research, mathematicians may find themselves in public service roles. They might engage in policy discussions, collaborate with politicians and other non-scientists, and use the predictive power of mathematics to shape substantial decisions. We aim to promote good practice for ethical mathematical modelling in these difficult times. We begin with some observations about mathematical modellers, then derive eight questions that all mathematicians should constantly ask themselves, in order to develop their mathematics responsibly and ethically.