Re: Pathological science

[William G Rhodes <wgrhode@sandia.gov>]

Dr. Gibbs:

I have a copy of this paper.  It is a transcript of a talk that Dr. Langmuir 
presented at the GE R&D Center in Niskayuna, NY.  Several years ago I had 
suggested to the HP Newsletter editor that this transcript be reprinted in the 
newsletter for the very reasons you list below. The idea was unfortunately 
rejected, even though the paper provides a very interesting message.

The paper was given to me by a manager at GE.  We were in the middle of 
investigating allegations that workers had received large intakes of 
radionuclides (i.e., exceeding the regulatory limits of the day).  The person 
making this allegation was using radiochemistry data from the 1940s-70s to make 
his point.  Many of the points discussed in the Langmuir transcript (which you 
captured below) were relevant to the allegations, and are relevant to current 
events as you mentioned.

I you would like a copy, please send me an email directly.

Bill Rhodes
wgrhode@sandia.gov


______________________________ Reply Separator _________________________________
Subject: Pathological science
Author:  s.julian.gibbs@vanderbilt.edu at hubsmtp
Date:    8/12/98 8:34 AM


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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