The principle of Respect for the potential and participating human subject is frequently described in terms of the "autonomy" of the individual. That is, it is expected that all adult human beings, unless afflicted by disease, disability, or certain kinds of temporary circumstances, are able to and have the right to make their own decisions about participation in scientific and other scholarly research.
In respecting the autonomy of individuals and their rights to self-determination, the researcher must be sensitive to the researcher's effect on the potential or participating subjects. There is no single culture in the United States, but there is a common agreement that cultural differences will be respected. Accordingly, in this country (and others) polite behavior may be mistaken for acquiesence or agreement.
Researcher and potential subject do not meet as equals. The researcher is expected to know, in advance, the potential for harm or injury that might result from the research procedures. The potential subject does not know this initially and must trust that information received about potential dangers is full and correct. In the course of research participating subjects are under the "control" of researchers; their autonomy is limited moment to moment by the constraints and parameters of the research. In some cases, decisions to participate are effectively irrevocable. The commitment of the subject must be balanced by at least an equal and off-setting degree of respect and personal responsibility on the part of the researcher.
| Back | Next |
