Following general comments on the ethics of research involving human beings, this article focuses on the possibility of injustices occurring under the patronage of several forms of power. Concrete situations are used as examples. The analysis of possible injustices in the lights of Bioethics is emphasized, with multi- and trans-disciplinarity being highlighted. The author positions himself vis à vis the current characteristics of Bioethics. These are the views that led to the preparation of the Ethical Guidelines for research involving humans in Brazil (Resolution 196/96 and complementary documents issued by the National Council on Health). The systematics of the work done by the Executive Work Group - EWG appointed by the National Council on Health (the bureau for social control in the area of healthcare) in order to prepare the Guidelines is described. The participation of the several segments of society is highlighted, evidencing multi- and trans-disciplinarity, under the coordination of the EWG, which was chaired by the author. The main topics of the Brazilian Guidelines are discussed, focusing on their relation with the subject of power and injustice. The role of the Ethics in Research Committees (ERC) is stressed, as is the role of the National Commission for Ethics in Research - NCER.
Bioethics; clinical trials; guidelines