The right and the wrong with epilepsy and her science.

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Epileptology
• Scientific Research Methodology

Background:

• Epilepsy research has seen significant progress, improving patient outcomes and societal integration.
• Despite advances, certain research methods and practices have led to scientific dead ends and questionable findings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To critically re-evaluate current and past practices in epilepsy research.
• To identify specific areas and reasons for misdirected research efforts and theories.
• To guide future research toward minimizing pitfalls and achieving the "End of Epilepsy".

Main Methods:

• This is a commentary and opinion paper.
• Critical analysis of past and present epilepsy research methodologies and practices.
• Identification of successes, failures, and potentially mistaken theories.

Main Results:

• Epilepsy research has achieved notable successes but also encountered significant failures.
• Factors such as "fashion," flawed science, and bureaucratic influences contribute to non-objective findings.
• Several current research practices and theories are likely to be mistaken.

Conclusions:

• Recognizing past and present research pitfalls is the first step toward remediation.
• Future research must address identified weaknesses to accelerate progress.
• Minimizing these pitfalls is crucial for advancing toward the ultimate goal of the "End of Epilepsy".