A thread through the archive
Essays tagged “research ethics”. Follow an idea across the archive.
A detailed insider look at Phase I clinical drug trials, revealing how the system's structure encourages participants to routinely lie about their medical history and symptoms to continue participating.
Scott Alexander reviews a book critiquing Institutional Review Boards, arguing they now harm medical research more than they help.
Scott shares reader responses to his IRB experience, ranging from similar frustrations to defenses of the system, and discusses concerns about increasing bureaucracy in research.
Scott Alexander recounts his frustrating attempt to conduct a study on a bipolar disorder screening test, highlighting the excessive bureaucratic hurdles that ultimately led to the study's abandonment.
Scott Alexander responds to criticism of his growth mindset study analysis, acknowledging some errors while maintaining other criticisms.
The author humorously responds to a common argument against evidence-based medicine, suggesting a parachute experiment with a twist.