Which statement most clearly illustrates the principle of beneficence?

The principle of beneficence is grounded in the ethical obligation to maximize benefits and minimize potential harm to research participants. The statement about determining whether the benefits of a study outweigh the risks directly reflects this principle, as it involves assessing the overall impact of the research on participants and the greater community. This evaluation ensures that the potential positive outcomes of the research justify the risks involved.

Evaluating the benefits against the risks is critical to ethical research design and implementation, ensuring that researchers prioritize the well-being of participants. By confirming that the benefits surpass the possible harms, researchers uphold the principle of beneficence, ultimately striving to contribute positively to the body of knowledge while safeguarding participant welfare.