Conflict of interest: the new McCarthyism in science
Article Abstract:
New rules on disclosing potential conflict of interest may actually lower rather than increase objectivity in science. Theoretically, a scientific study or endeavor should be evaluated solely on its scientific merit. New disclosure policies adopted by many scientific journals are designed to further the scientific pursuit by informing readers of any facts they may want to have as they evaluate the studies. However, this information may be not only financial but also personal, such as sexual orientation or religion. Furthermore, stating that a potential for conflict of interest exists does not indicate whether the study actually is biased or slanted. Judging a person's work on the basis of funding or on any factor other than its own merit is not fair to the person. Journals should preserve the discourse of scientific inquiry by presenting studies judged on their substance and design and inviting readers and researchers to present opposing views.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1993
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JFK's assassination: conspiracy, forensic science, and common science
Article Abstract:
A physician presents his analysis of John F. Kennedy's assassination and refutes the theory of a government-involved conspiracy. Advocates of the conspiracy theory cite inconsistencies between the official autopsy report of two bullets from the rear and observations of the assassination. Most of a bullet's damage is due to the pressure it generates, not the actual bullet. Simulations of the assassination using the same rifle and ammunition as Lee Harvey Oswald produced the same type of explosive injury and small entrance and exit wounds as seen during the autopsy. The wound seen in Dallas was still actively bleeding and had not been cleaned, and the full extent of the wound was not revealed until the body reached Bethesda. More than medical evidence, however, common sense indicates the unlikelihood of a conspiracy.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1993
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Science-Based Views of Drug Addiction and Its Treatment
Article Abstract:
Many primary care physicians are reluctant to treat drug addiction. However, research done since the 1970s has shown that drug addiction can be successfully treated. Since the process may take a long time, the primary care physician is best suited to refer patients to appropriate treatments and follow up to make sure they are successful. Many drug addicts have a mental illness and are using drugs to self-medicate. Consequently, the mental illness will have to be treated. Addicts may also need family therapy, parenting instruction, vocational rehabilitation, and social and legal services.
Publication Name: JAMA, The Journal of the American Medical Association
Subject: Health
ISSN: 0098-7484
Year: 1999
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