According to the ethical principle that requires researchers to maximize possible benefits and minimize possible harm, what is this principle called?

• A. Beneficence
• B. Autonomy
• C. Justice
• D. Nonmaleficence

Answer: (A)

The main concept tested is beneficence in research ethics—the obligation to maximize potential benefits and minimize possible harms from research activities. Beneficence guides researchers to design and conduct studies that meaningfully improve welfare or knowledge while implementing safeguards to reduce risks to participants. It’s the proactive, good-doing side of ethics, not merely avoiding harm.

Autonomy is about respecting participants’ right to make informed, voluntary choices. Justice concerns fair distribution of research benefits and burdens among groups. Nonmaleficence is focused on not causing harm. The description “maximize benefits and minimize harm” aligns with beneficence, since it emphasizes promoting good and reducing risks in the research context.