What ethical principle ensures that researchers do no harm?

The ethical principle that ensures researchers do no harm is best represented by the concept of nonmaleficence. This principle emphasizes the obligation of researchers to avoid causing harm to participants in their studies. It acknowledges that while research can yield valuable knowledge and benefits, it must be conducted in a way that prioritizes the safety and well-being of individuals involved in the research process.

Nonmaleficence is foundational in guiding researchers to design studies that minimize risks and protect participants from potential physical, psychological, or emotional harm. This principle stands in contrast to beneficence, which focuses on the obligation to maximize benefits and contribute positively to participants' well-being. While both principles are crucial in ethical research, nonmaleficence specifically highlights the need to prevent harm from occurring in the first place.

Justice and autonomy play significant roles in ethical research as well; justice concerns the fair distribution of research benefits and burdens, whereas autonomy emphasizes respecting individuals' rights to make informed decisions about their participation. However, when it comes to the explicit commitment to avoid causing harm, nonmaleficence is the guiding principle.