The Crisis of Science
In a chaotic world, we rely on science to back up our understanding of truth. But when flawed science is accepted as fact, the consequences can be devastating. Crisis in Science, produced by the Corbett Report, examines the factors that lead to scientific compromise and the risks they pose to us all.
There are a variety of reasons why scientific research may contain misleading data, including simple human error, pervasive bias, flawed premises, and blatant fraud. Sometimes it comes down to selfishness and a scientist’s desire to publish a study that is as provocative and engaging as possible. Finally, researchers can often extrapolate the number of people needed to support their claims if the study includes a sufficiently large sample of the population.
Case in point: A 2015 study concluded that chocolate may aid weight loss. The study, published online by a respected science journalist, gained attention and was soon featured in publications around the world. While the study itself is authentic, the authors admit that the results are bogus. He just wanted to test how successful he could be at spreading false science as accepted fact.
It’s an extreme example, but it points to a broader, more insidious crisis. Consuming chocolate may seem harmless, but what if the public believes false data about vaccines or other potentially life-changing health services? Companies use bribery to influence important research results in their favor. Viewers learn of several such studies that successfully disseminated and sold questionable research into swine flu, bladder cancer, and asbestos exposure research.
The film outlines a variety of troubling issues currently plaguing the field of scientific research. Most withdrawals are due to apparent fraud and other misconduct. A growing body of research is not designed to be replicated by other scientists; therefore, the research’s claims cannot be fully substantiated, and the basis for scientific certainty remains elusive.
“Science in Crisis” includes informed narration throughout the film, as well as several news clips and research excerpts that further illustrate the point.
