What did the National Research Act of 1974 achieve?

The National Research Act of 1974 led to the establishment of the National Commission for the Protection of Human Subjects of Biomedical and Behavioral Research. This commission was crucial in addressing ethical issues in research, particularly focusing on the rights and welfare of human subjects. One of the primary outcomes of the commission's work was the development of the Belmont Report, which outlined fundamental ethical principles and guidelines for conducting research involving human subjects.

This act was a significant turning point in ensuring that ethical considerations were formally integrated into research practices, ultimately leading to the development of regulations that govern human subjects research today. While the other options touch on important aspects related to human subjects research ethics, the correct answer emphasizes the foundational step of establishing the National Commission, which initiated a broader evaluation and reform of research ethics in the United States.