I presume the interest derives from the upcoming Conflict of Interest
certification that will be required by NSF starting next July.  I have little t
o contribute except that the philosophy and background giving rise to the
federal merit system may be applicable to such a definition.  Theoretically,
government officials cannot use their office/position to advance the interests
of significant others.  In practice...well, you know how it goes...

My two cents given,

Steve Hoagland
Research Adminstrator
Old Dominion University
xxxxxx@oduvm.cc.odu.edu