To evaluate the ethical role of researchers in developmental communication, this paper first reviews current thinking on development theories, suggesting that world recession, as well as skyrocketing national debts and internal conflicts in Third World nations underscore (1) the relationship between Third World development and global stability, (2) the distinction between development and Westernization, and (3) the existence of internal as well as external obstacles to national development. It then describes three positive developments in communication thinking over the past decade: a more modest view of communication as reflection rather than the cause of social structures and values, a greater understanding of the complex interaction between the media and society, and a new recognition that not all Third World problems can be solved through technological advancements. Summarizing current findings on social change, the paper suggests, for example, that change cannot be carried out simply by political mandate. In conclusion, the paper discusses researchers' need to critically evaluate their work. Communication scientists, it suggests, must review both the ends of their projects and the means, and then work to direct the reduced funding to those projects having the greatest impact on human needs. (MM)