Which Belmont principle was violated when burdens of serving as research subjects fell primarily upon poor patients, while benefits flowed to wealthier patients?

The principle that was violated in this scenario is justice. Justice in research ethics emphasizes fairness in the distribution of the benefits and burdens of research. When the burdens of participating in research disproportionately affect a vulnerable population, such as poor patients, while the benefits are predominantly received by a more affluent group, this creates an imbalance that is contrary to the principle of justice.

This principle seeks to ensure that no specific group of people bears the burdens of research without having a fair opportunity to share in its benefits. Therefore, when vulnerable populations are exploited in this manner, it highlights a significant ethical concern regarding equity and fairness within the research framework. Adhering to the principle of justice would require that both the burdens and benefits of research participation are equitably shared among all groups involved.