1 xkcd on significance

Today's xkcd made me laugh - read the mouseover text for maximum humorous effect...

I don't like it when findings get sensationalized or read out of context - or jumping to conclusions about them. Is coffee good for you... or bad for you? Is that glass of wine with dinner good for you? How about two glasses?

This is why more than one study is needed when something of significance appears - and why the studies need more evaluation.

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0 xkcd on sickness and science

Taking a break from the critique of the Chicago Tribune article to post this comic from xkcd...

Credit: xkcd.com

I think that science has done a lot to improve doctors' ability to diagnose illness and deal with major trauma. Vaccines, modern anesthesia, pain medication, antibiotics, X-rays, CT scans, MRIs, chemotherapy, and advanced surgical techniques have saved many lives. Science still has yet to catch up in coming up with effective treatments and cures for some of the worst diseases in history, though, and has to leave politics and profit margins at the door.

When we look back on this moment in history, we may be shocked at the degree that last bit played in decisions that affect future generations to come. What happened to the role of science in basic research, and how can we return to that role?

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