Pathological science

Under pathological science is understood, according to the inventor of the word Irving Langmuir, research on non-existing phenomena, in which the scientific self-control fails for a while. Because of wishful thinking an alleged phenomenon is taken seriously so that a rising tide of publications and research uses, which then grew stronger due to doubts finally comes to a halt.

The difference between pseudo-science is that the phenomenon is represented not assumed and accepted as scientific, but represents a seemingly real, startling discovery. The difference with the para-science is that there takes place the discovery in a well established area and is discussed, ie that the discoverers not have to fight from the beginning to the recognition of their work.

Criteria

Langmuir counted in his presentation before the meeting of the Knolls Research Laboratory on December 18, 1953 several criteria:

  • The maximum observable effect is caused by a cause of hardly observable intensity; the size of the effect is generally independent of the size of the cause.
  • The effect has a magnitude that is at the limit of observability; It is because of the low statistical significance of the results very many measurements are necessary.
  • It will set up a claim to high experimental accuracy.
  • Fantastic theories that contradict the experience often be placed.
  • Criticism is reciprocated with ad hoc explanations.
  • The ratio of supporters to critics rises at first, then gradually go back to zero.

A common denominator is often emotional reasons that lead to serious consideration of a phenomenon. In the N- rays, the French felt in the time of nationalism by the German successes snubs and emulated by new scientific discoveries. It is also significant that the N- rays were mainly studied in France. When Polywater it had been missing after the initial successes and its own hubris of Russian scientists at the necessary internal criticism; the existing warning sign of some employees were studiously ignored. It was very difficult for the Soviet scientists because of their years of personal use then drop the thesis.

Examples

Often mentioned examples of pathological science are:

  • N- rays
  • Electrochemical Cold Fusion
  • Polywater
  • Mars channels
N ray
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