Which ethical principle emphasizes fairness in treatment?

The ethical principle that emphasizes fairness in treatment is justice. This principle is fundamental in health care and social services, ensuring that individuals receive what they are due, based on their needs and circumstances. Justice calls for equitable access to resources, opportunities, and care, regardless of personal characteristics such as race, gender, socioeconomic status, or health condition. It underlines the importance of treating all individuals with the same level of respect and consideration, promoting a fair distribution of benefits and burdens within the healthcare system.

In the context of other ethical principles, while beneficence refers to actions that promote the well-being of individuals and non-maleficence focuses on avoiding harm, neither directly addresses fairness in treatment. Autonomy emphasizes the right of individuals to make informed choices about their own care, which is crucial but does not cover the broad concept of justice in treatment equity. Thus, justice uniquely captures the essence of fairness in the healthcare context.