Betrayal of Truth: Scientific Deception in the Hall of Science

Author: (USA) William Broad, Nicholas Wade, Zhu Jinning, Fang Yuzhen
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2004-12-01
Features: This is a book that explores the true nature of scientific research. It introduces some major cases of falsified data, fabricated experimental results, and plagiarism in the history of science. For example, Ptolemy claimed to have conducted astronomical measurements out of thin air, and Mendel's statistical results lost their authenticity due to being too perfect. Through these cases, the authors convincingly analyze the social and psychological reasons behind such cheating behaviors and the factors that allow them to succeed. They point out that there are many problems in the current structure of scientific research (such as excessive reliance on self-correction within the scientific community, overdependence on influential groups, unreasonable mentor-mentee relationships, and an excessive number of journals). They explain that the reality of scientific research has little in common with the usual image it is portrayed as. Scientists do not acquire new knowledge solely through logic and objectivity; irrational factors such as eloquence, publicity, and personal biases also play a role. Scientists do not rely solely on rational thinking, nor is rational thinking exclusive to them. Science should not be seen as the guardian of reason in society, but rather as an important form of cultural expression.