Autonomy, consent and vulnerability of clinical research participants

Abstract

The present study is a bibliographic review that aimed to discuss the concepts of autonomy, consent and vulnerability of clinical research participants by the qualitative approach. It also discussed autonomy versus paternalism, vulnerability and the double standard, and the practice of moral imperialism in peripheral
countries. Reflections are offered on the points mentioned above in the light of Latin American Bioethics. Finally, the restructuring of legislation and of Research Ethics Committees represents a new perspective.