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Scientific paradigms and ethical problems in epidemiologic research
1Department of Medicine and Epidemiology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510.
Journal of Clinical Epidemiology
|January 1, 1991
Summary
Epidemiologic research faces challenges when new methods are questioned, mirroring historical scientific paradigm shifts. Debates over epidemiologic evidence quality should focus on scientific merit, not personal ethics.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Scientific Methodology
- Medical History
Background:
- Historical resistance to paradigm shifts in science often involved ethical accusations.
- Epidemiologic evidence is increasingly used in legal and policy contexts, intensifying scrutiny.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the parallels between historical scientific controversies and current disputes in epidemiology.
- To advocate for scientific discourse over ethical accusations in evaluating epidemiologic methods.
Main Methods:
- Historical analysis of scientific paradigm shifts.
- Conceptual analysis of current epidemiologic debates.
Main Results:
- Past scientific revolutions faced resistance rooted in perceived threats to established norms.
- Current epidemiologic disputes show a pattern of personal attacks rather than scientific critique.
Conclusions:
- Disputes over epidemiologic methods and evidence echo historical resistance to scientific change.
- Evaluating epidemiologic research requires a focus on scientific validity, not ethical judgments.