What does the term 'justice' imply in research ethics?

The term 'justice' in research ethics refers to the principle of fair selection and distribution of benefits and burdens among participants. This principle emphasizes the importance of ensuring that no group of individuals is disproportionately burdened by the research while others benefit from it without contributing. Justice seeks to ensure that the benefits of research are accessible to all segments of society, especially those who are typically marginalized or underrepresented.

This principle also implies that individuals should not be exploited or excluded from the benefits of research simply based on their demographics or socio-economic status. In practice, this can mean that when researchers are designing studies, they should strive for a representation of different populations to ensure that findings are applicable and beneficial to the wider community. By adhering to this principle of justice, researchers can work towards equity and fairness in the research process, thereby enhancing the integrity and societal value of their work.