Open Science and ethical concerns: exploring controversies building a social science research infrastructure

Open Science is reshaping how research is carried out and shared, driving a global movement that’s particularly gaining momentum in Europe. At the same time, ethics is becoming increasingly important, as Open Science introduces new challenges that require thoughtful and responsible management. Integrating these two areas is crucial, especially when building e-infrastructures for social sciences, where discussions remain on the surface. This paper explores the role of ethics in creating a social research infrastructure in Italy. Drawing on the framework of Actor-Network Theory and using a cartography of controversies, it examines a case study developed in the frame of a European Project. Through document analysis and Social Network Analysis, the study shows how competing perspectives shape the development of data infrastructures and highlights the close connection between ethical concerns and research methods. Key challenges include overburdening central actors, underutilizing peripheral contributors, and the marginal involvement of technical stakeholders from strategic decision-making. The study highlights the importance of adaptable ethical frameworks like Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) and Ethics-by-Design to balance ethical ideals with practical needs.