Consider the statement:“The following report presents the results of our laboratory tests, which support the conclusion that our new treatment for acne is safe and effective with minimal possible side effects.”What questions should a person ask themselves to determine if this scientific study is reliable?
Answer
A
What does the acne medicine look like?
B
What does the acne medicine smell like?
C
Were laboratory tests conducted by the same company that produces the acne medicine?
D
Were laboratory tests conducted in a laboratory with more than 100 employees?
Explanation
To judge whether the study is reliable, ask whether the testing was independent or conducted by a company that could benefit from a positive result. If the acne medicine’s producer conducted the tests, potential bias is worth considering when evaluating the conclusions. The medicine’s appearance, smell, and the laboratory’s employee count do not by themselves establish whether the study is reliable.
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