Pathological science

eablair at NextBigFuture:

Some characteristics of pathological science are:

The maximum effect that is observed is produced by a causative agent of barely detectable intensity, and the magnitude of the effect is substantially independent of the intensity of the cause.

The effect is of a magnitude that remains close to the limit of detectability, or many measurements are necessary because of the very low statistical significance of the results.

There are claims of great accuracy.

Fantastic theories contrary to experience are suggested.

Criticisms are met by ad hoc excuses.

The ratio of supporters to critics rises and then falls gradually to oblivion.

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