Professional Responsibility State Practice Exam

Which principle assumes society has a responsibility to treat people fairly?

1. Justice

2. Confidentiality

3. Whanaungatanga

4. Beneficence

The correct answer is: Justice

The principle that assumes society has a responsibility to treat people fairly is justice. Justice encompasses the idea of fairness and equality within the legal system and society as a whole. It emphasizes the importance of providing everyone with equal access to resources, opportunities, and protections under the law. This principle underlies many ethical systems and legal practices, ensuring that individuals are treated without bias or discrimination. In contrast, confidentiality relates to the obligation to protect private information and maintain client privacy, which, while crucial in many contexts, does not directly pertain to fairness in treatment across society. Whanaungatanga is a Māori concept emphasizing relationships, kinship, and a sense of belonging, but it does not specifically address societal fairness as justice does. Beneficence focuses on the duty to act in the best interest of others and promote their well-being, which is important in professional and ethical contexts, but it does not encompass the broader societal mandate for fair treatment present in the justice principle.