Can I run electrical wiring through basement ceiling joists?
The general guidelines:


Don't notch a joist.  (it's legal under the correct circumstances, but don't consider it until you have no other choice.)
Don't drill a joist near the ends.  (how near is near?  Stick to the middle third and be safe. )
Only drill on the center-line of the joist. (This is the area under least stress).
keep your holes less than 1/3 the height of the joist.  A 3/4 inch hole for romex is fine under almost any circumstances.


These aren't the rules, these are a set of guidelines more restrictive than the rules, that you can quickly and easily work with in the field.  If you want to work outside these guidelines, then consult the local building code.