Pathological science

["Gibbs, S Julian" <s.julian.gibbs@vanderbilt.edu>]

The following quote may be applied to many of the arguments 
recently presented in the linear nonthreshold hypothesis 
controversy--to both sides, that is.  (It may also be 
applied to many other scientific issues, such as effects 
of low-frequency electromagnetic fields.)  It has been 
attributed to Nobel Laureate physicist-chemist (both claim 
him) Irving Langmuir, ca 1953:

Pathological Science
Causative agent of barely detectable intensity.
Magnitude of effect independent of intensity of causative 
	agent.
Magnitude of effect near limit of detectability.
Claims of great accuracy.
Theories contrary to experience.
Criticisms met by ad hoc excuses.

I have been unable to find the reference.  If anyone can 
identify the citation, please let me know.

***********************************************************
S. Julian Gibbs, DDS, PhD               Voice: 615-322-3190
Professor of Radiology                    FAX: 615-322-3764 
Dept. of Radiology & Radiological Sciences
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville TN 37232-2670 Email:s.julian.gibbs@Vanderbilt.Edu

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