Which statement best represents the rationale behind the Justice principle in TCPS 2?

• A. This helps to maintain public trust in research.
• B. This contributes to the legitimacy of research results by ensuring that research findings are drawn from the full range of those to whom the research applies.
• C. This avoids disadvantaged or marginalized groups from bearing a disproportionate share of research risks.
• D. All of the above.

Answer: (D)

Justice in TCPS 2 is about fair treatment and the equitable distribution of research burdens and benefits. Public trust grows when research practices are fair and transparent, which is why maintaining public trust fits under Justice. Including the full range of people to whom the research applies helps ensure findings reflect those groups and that benefits and knowledge aren’t limited to a narrow subset, supporting both fairness and the legitimacy of the results. Avoiding that disadvantaged or marginalized groups bear a disproportionate share of risks protects those most at risk from exploitation and harm, a core justice concern. Taken together, these points show why the rationale behind Justice includes fostering trust, ensuring representative inclusion, and preventing unequal burden—so all of these ideas align with the principle.