What is the primary purpose of the Belmont Report?

The primary purpose of the Belmont Report is to outline ethical principles for research involving human subjects. This foundational document was created in response to historical abuses in research and aims to ensure the protection of individuals participating in research studies. It articulates three core ethical principles: respect for persons, beneficence, and justice. These principles serve as guidelines for ethical conduct in research and help to inform practices that protect participants’ rights and welfare. By focusing specifically on ethical considerations, the Belmont Report plays a critical role in establishing standards that researchers must follow, ensuring that studies are conducted responsibly and with integrity.