The ethical question is often framed the wrong way.
People ask:
“Do I have the right to write if I’m not an expert?”
But that’s not the right question.
The real question is:
Can my text be useful and not harmful?
If the answer is yes — then it’s ethical.
If not — then it’s not.
What Does “Ethical” Mean Here?
For me, writing ethically means:
- Not misleading the reader
- Not presenting personal opinions as universal truth
- Not pushing people toward risky decisions
Degrees and credentials are secondary.
What matters most is setting honest boundaries.
The Simplest Way to Avoid Harm
If you’re writing about a topic where you lack formal training, just say so clearly at the beginning.
No need for disclaimers to sound humble or apologetic — just state the facts.
For example:
I’m not a licensed psychologist and I don’t have formal education in this field.
What I’m sharing below is based on my personal experience and reflections.
I’m not claiming to provide universal answers.
If you’re dealing with serious issues, it’s better to consult a professional than to rely on articles.
That’s enough.
Or Keep It Shorter
You don’t always need a full disclaimer.
Sometimes one line is enough:
This is my personal experience. I’m not a specialist — please read critically.
The goal isn’t word count —
it’s to set expectations and avoid misleading the reader.
But Some People Will Still Complain
Some readers will:
- Skip the intro entirely
- Accuse you of oversimplifying
- Say you have “no right” to write about this
That’s not a problem with your article.
That’s a problem with how people read.
If you’ve been honest about your position —
you’ve done your part.
What happens next is not your responsibility.
Should You Include These Articles in Your Portfolio?
Yes — but not just as files.
A weak case study sounds like:
“Here’s something I wrote.”
A good one explains the process and thinking behind it.
A Good Portfolio Entry Includes Three Things
1. The Goal
Why was this piece written?
What were you trying to do — explore a question, clarify a topic, ease someone’s anxiety, organize your thoughts?
2. The Approach
How did you choose your tone?
Why did you include a disclaimer?
Why did you avoid giving advice?
3. The Outcome
What happened after publishing?
- Comments
- Shares
- DMs
- Saves
- Emails
Even a result like “readers thanked me for being honest” is a result.
Final Thought
Ethical writing isn’t about having a diploma.
It’s about:
- Being honest about who you are
- Making your position clear
- Not dressing up opinions as facts
If your goal is to explore — not to preach —
and your boundaries are clear,
then you absolutely should write.