Intelligence Squared Science Fictions, with Stuart Ritchie and Tom Whipple
Jul 21, 2020
Stuart Ritchie, a professor and author of 'Science Fictions,' dives into the alarming flaws that plague scientific research, discussing its implications on medicine and education. He highlights the replication crisis and the significant biases influencing study results, including in trials for depression. The conversation addresses the complexities of peer review and the urgent need for reform in research integrity. Ritchie also introduces innovative methods to spot questionable studies, advocating for transparency and better practices in scientific inquiry.
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Psychic Powers Replication
- Stuart Ritchie, as a PhD student, attempted to replicate a study suggesting psychic powers exist.
- The journal refused to publish the replication, highlighting a bias towards exciting, new findings.
Replication Crisis Breadth
- The replication crisis is not limited to psychology but affects other scientific disciplines.
- "Hard sciences" likely have fewer issues due to stricter experimental control.
Ideal Scientific Process
- Ideally, scientists pre-plan experiments, collect data, analyze it dispassionately, and submit it for peer review.
- Biases and failures can occur at every stage of this process.
