I. Introduction

According to the Australian National Statement

 " 'ethical conduct' is more than simply doing the right thing. It involves acting in the right spirit, out of an abiding respect and concern for one's fellow creatures."

Ethical human research is more than just "ethical 'do's' and 'don'ts' - namely, an ethos that should permeate the way those engaged in human research approach all that they do in their research." [1]

The central values and principles of ethical research include:

  • Research merit and integrity 
  • Justice 
  • Beneficence 
  • Respect 

[1] National Statement, preamble, p.3

p3Photo by a member of the Clinical Trials Group at The University of Melbourne