Which ethical principle emphasizes the need for fairness in research?

The principle that emphasizes the need for fairness in research is justice. This ethical concept focuses on ensuring that the benefits and burdens of research are distributed fairly among all participants. Justice seeks to prevent the exploitation of vulnerable populations and supports inclusivity in research practices, ensuring that no particular group is overrepresented among those subjected to risks or underrepresented among those who enjoy the benefits of research.

This principle is crucial in safeguarding that individuals are treated equitably, not only in selection for research participation but also in the overall process, including access to resources and the sharing of results. In this context, applying justice means being aware of societal disparities and striving to address them through equitable research practices.

In contrast, the other options—beneficence, accountability, and negligence—while important ethical concepts, do not specifically address fairness as their primary focus. Beneficence is concerned with maximizing benefits and minimizing harm, accountability refers to the obligation to explain one’s actions and decisions, and negligence typically involves a failure to take proper care in fulfilling one's responsibilities. None of these directly encapsulate the principle of fairness in the way that justice does.