Pathological science

Irving Langmuir

Blondlot N-rays

Pathological science is a term used to describe a research process or set of results that are considered to be misleading or false but are presented as legitimate scientific findings. The concept was first introduced by Irving Langmuir, a Nobel Prize-winning chemist, in a lecture he gave in 1953. Pathological science occurs when researchers are misled by their own subjective beliefs, faulty experimental methods, or poor data analysis, leading to the persistent pursuit of non-existent phenomena.

Characteristics

Pathological science is characterized by several key features:

• The effects are barely detectable due to their low statistical significance or are at the limit of the detection methods.
• There is a tendency to emphasize only the positive results while neglecting or dismissing negative findings.
• There is often a reliance on anecdotal evidence or experiments that are not easily reproduced by other researchers.
• The field is often associated with a degree of confirmation bias, where researchers may ignore or misinterpret data that contradicts their hypotheses.
• There is usually a gradual escalation of commitment among the proponents, often leading to a point where criticisms or disproofs are dismissed or ignored.

Examples

Historical examples of pathological science include the N-rays phenomenon in the early 20th century, where French physicist Prosper-René Blondlot claimed to have discovered a new form of radiation, and the cold fusion controversy of 1989, where electrochemists Martin Fleischmann and Stanley Pons reported having achieved nuclear fusion at room temperature. Both cases were later discredited after independent attempts to replicate the findings failed.

Criticism and Controversy

The term "pathological science" itself is not without controversy. Critics argue that it can be used to dismiss legitimate, albeit unconventional, scientific research. They also point out that the boundary between genuine scientific discovery and pathological science can be blurry, as many significant discoveries were initially met with skepticism.

Prevention

To prevent falling into the trap of pathological science, researchers are encouraged to adhere strictly to the scientific method, including rigorous peer review, transparent methodology, and replication of results. Openness to criticism and a willingness to revise or abandon hypotheses in the light of new evidence are also crucial.

See Also

• Scientific method
• Pseudoscience
• Confirmation bias
• Publication bias
• Replication crisis

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