Which ethical principle emphasizes the importance of minimization of risks in research?

The ethical principle that emphasizes the importance of minimization of risks in research is beneficence. This principle requires researchers to maximize the potential benefits of their work while minimizing any possible harm or risk to participants. In the context of research, this means that whenever a study is proposed, the researchers must consider carefully how to reduce any adverse effects that could arise from participation.

Beneficence is fundamental to upholding the well-being of research participants, as it balances the necessity of conducting research with the obligation to protect individuals from harm. Researchers are therefore encouraged to design their studies with the aim of ensuring that any risks are justified by the potential benefits of the research findings.

In contrast, the other principles—respect for persons, justice, and accountability—serve different purposes within research ethics. Respect for persons focuses on the autonomy and informed consent of participants, justice relates to fairness in the distribution of research benefits and burdens, and accountability concerns researchers being responsible for their actions and treating participants ethically. However, none of these principles are specifically centered on the minimization of risks as beneficence is.