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Let's always ask for evidence

Posted by Leonor Sierra on 18 August 2011

David Aaronovitch’s warning against bad science strikes a chord with us...

This week's papers reported that watching TV can cut your life expectancy. In The Times today David Aaronovitch warns of the dangers of bad science and talks about what the study behind these reports might actually be telling us. Our upcoming guide Is There a Link? is focused on exactly this problem, asking how you can cut through the hype of news reporting to look at the evidence behind scientific claims. His warning that bad science can have serious consequences really resonates with us. We see it in our work with patient groups, who tell us about all kinds of miracle cures people are prepared to try even when there is no evidence that they work; and when the frustration amongst young scientists about clinics promoting homeopathy for serious diseases in Africa prompted an international VoYS campaign.

Everyone can ask questions about the status of evidence, for instance is the research peer reviewed or has it been replicated? The best way to immunise ourselves against bad science is always being prepared to ask for the evidence.