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The analysis and interpretation of experiments: some philosophical issues

E A Murphy

    The Journal of Medicine and Philosophy
    |November 1, 1982
    PubMed
    Summary

    This study explores the philosophy of scientific experimentation, distinguishing between exploratory and consolidating research types. It highlights the differing perspectives of pragmatic scientists and statisticians, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of their distinct methodologies and terminologies in biology and medicine.

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    Area of Science:

    • Philosophy of Science
    • Biomedical Research Methodology
    • Experimental Design

    Background:

    • The epistemology and ontology of experimentation are crucial in biology and medicine.
    • Distinct types of experiments, exploratory and consolidating, possess unique objectives and principles.
    • A significant divergence exists between the pragmatic, literalist approach of many scientists and the formalist approach of statisticians.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To deeply discuss the epistemology and ontology of experimentation, particularly within biological and medical contexts.
    • To differentiate between exploratory and consolidating experimental types, outlining their contrasting aims and standards.
    • To analyze the semantic and conceptual gaps between pragmatic scientific language and statistical formalism.

    Main Methods:

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    • Conceptual analysis of experimental philosophy.
    • Distinction and comparison of exploratory versus consolidating experimental paradigms.
    • Examination of key concepts: metrics, interaction, time series, variation, randomization, hypothesis-seeking, and multiple comparisons.

    Main Results:

    • Exploratory and consolidating experiments have fundamentally different objectives and canons.
    • The language and concepts of pragmatic scientists and statisticians often lack direct correspondence.
    • Both underestimation and overestimation of the gap between these perspectives pose risks.

    Conclusions:

    • Understanding the philosophical underpinnings of experimental design is vital for robust scientific inquiry in medicine and biology.
    • Bridging the conceptual divide between scientific practice and statistical methods requires careful attention to terminology and interpretation.
    • Further research into the ontology of variation and epistemology of randomization is warranted.