What does the ethical principle of justice require?

The ethical principle of justice requires fair treatment of all human subjects involved in research. This principle emphasizes the importance of distributing both the burdens and benefits of research equitably. It calls for a fair selection of participants, ensuring that no particular group is unfairly burdened or privileged in the research process.

In the context of research ethics, justice also implies that individuals should have equal access to participate in studies and that those who may have been historically marginalized or disadvantaged are treated fairly. This equitable treatment is crucial for maintaining public trust in the research process and ensuring that the findings are applicable to diverse populations.

The focus of justice on fair treatment is distinct from other ethical principles, such as maximizing benefits or providing informed consent, which are also vital but relate to different aspects of ethical research conduct.