Re: summary="" in HTML5 ISSUE-32

On Feb 26, 2009, at 5:29 PM, Robert J Burns wrote:

>
>> If you have more objective data, then by all means, present it.
>
> The scientific method does not say that if we can find suitable data  
> than we can draw conclusions from it, but if we cannot then we  
> should simply allow one person in a position of leadership to make  
> wild speculation about what data might possibly exist if we had the  
> resources to acquire it.

The scientific method says that to dispute a theory (e.g. "summary  
values are usually poor"), one provides contrary evidence. For  
example, showing actual selection bias in Philip's study, or doing a  
study that shows different results, would be examples of the  
scientific method in action. Contrary evidence is what we use to  
reject a hypothesis.

On the other hand, spreading fear, uncertainty and doubt about the  
quality of Philip's study is not the scientific method. It is not  
science to say the study is bad without pointing out specific problems  
or showing contradictory results.

Regards,
Maciej

Received on Friday, 27 February 2009 01:48:57 UTC