Data sharing

Many kinds of events are subsumed under the rubric of data sharing. Given the range of meanings or contexts of data sharing, several conclusions follow: (1) Some kinds of data sharing are more problematic than others. (2) Objections to data sharing typically are bolstered by examples from the more difficult end of the spectrum. (3) Constrained sharing, including possible contractual and licensing agreements rather than merely handing over the data, is a likely norm to emerge at the more difficult end of the spectrum. (4) Given various tools for constrained sharing, even the most difficult cases may yield to constrained sharing solutions that benefit all parties involved. (5) If research is conducted with eventual sharing in mind, and if the scientist is acquainted with the tools of constrained sharing, then the kinds of dilemmas that currently pose as arguments against sharing will occur rarely.