In the utilitarian view of informed consent, which statement is most aligned?

• A. Providing informed consent would reduce worry and increase cooperation.
• B. Informed consent is optional if the researcher expects high societal benefit.
• C. Deception is justified to achieve greater good.
• D. Therapeutic privilege should routinely override autonomy.

Answer: (A)

Under utilitarian ethics, the aim is to maximize overall welfare by focusing on the consequences of actions. Providing informed consent fits this because when participants are informed, they experience less worry and fear, which leads to greater cooperation, safer participation, and more trustworthy, reliable research. This positive effect on welfare makes it the most aligned stance. Other options push autonomy aside or justify deception or routine override of autonomy, which tends to undermine trust and overall well-being, undermining the utilitarian goal even if short-term benefits are claimed.