Final answer:
The ASA is a foremost organization for sociologists with a code of ethics designed to guide ethical research conduct and safeguard human subjects from harm, preserving integrity and objectivity within the discipline.
Step-by-step explanation:
The American Sociological Association (ASA), founded in 1905, is a key professional organization for sociologists which provides a code of ethics to ensure responsible and ethical sociological research.
The ASA's ethical guidelines address several key areas including study conduct, use of sources, funding acceptance, and results publication to prevent unethical treatment of human subjects which can lead to either physical or psychological harm.
These guidelines were developed in response to prior unethical research practices and to uphold the integrity of sociological studies. The ASA requires researchers to maintain objectivity and integrity, taking serious responsibility for their interaction with human subjects.