Final answer:
Ethics and politics are not separate in applied research; instead, they are intertwined, with each influencing the direction and outcome of research. This relationship is significant and politically contextual, affecting ethical discussions and applied research practices.
Step-by-step explanation:
When considering the relationship between ethics and politics in applied research, it is not accurate to claim that they are separate and unrelated. Rather, ethics plays a significant role in applied research, influencing its direction and outcomes. Additionally, politics can shape ethical considerations, as political decisions often intersect with moral values and norms. In reality, ethics and politics are intertwined in applied research, due to the socio-political context within which research takes place and its potential implications for policy and public life.