What must researchers ensure when conducting research on human subjects?

When conducting research on human subjects, it is crucial for researchers to prioritize informed consent and confidentiality. Informed consent involves providing potential participants with adequate information about the study, including its purpose, potential risks, benefits, and their rights, allowing them to make an autonomous decision about their participation. This ethical principle is fundamental in ensuring respect for participants' autonomy and rights.

Confidentiality involves safeguarding participants' personal information and ensuring that their identities remain protected throughout the research process. Researchers have an ethical obligation to maintain the privacy of their participants, adhering to regulations and guidelines that govern ethical research practices. Together, informed consent and confidentiality help to protect the dignity and rights of participants, building trust and integrity in the research process.

Other factors, while important in the broader context of research, do not directly address the ethical obligations researchers have to their human subjects. Publicity and funding acquisition pertain more to the logistical and financial aspects of conducting research. Fast data collection methods and minimizing costs are practical considerations but do not speak to the ethical responsibilities that are paramount in human subjects research. Therefore, the emphasis on informed consent and confidentiality is key to conducting ethical research involving human participants.