Articles
ATTENTION TO DETAIL IN SEED GERMINATION
Article number
83_38
Pages
289 – 296
Language
Abstract
Unexplained variations are common in germination results.
Because of the amount of research on germination already completed, it is probable that new research will either produce negative results or challenge theories in which others have a vested interest.
Therefore, although attention to detail in searching for an explanation to variation is the scientific approach, some scientists manipulate data to conceal variation.
Editorial review policies appear to encourage publication of such results, as well as publication of trivial research.
These practices, and ‘the administrative acts necessary to conceal them, have dramatically lowered the quality of agricultural research in the United States and constitute a potential threat to the food supply of other countries.
Suggestions are offered on how scientists can minimize or eliminate these problems.
Because of the amount of research on germination already completed, it is probable that new research will either produce negative results or challenge theories in which others have a vested interest.
Therefore, although attention to detail in searching for an explanation to variation is the scientific approach, some scientists manipulate data to conceal variation.
Editorial review policies appear to encourage publication of such results, as well as publication of trivial research.
These practices, and ‘the administrative acts necessary to conceal them, have dramatically lowered the quality of agricultural research in the United States and constitute a potential threat to the food supply of other countries.
Suggestions are offered on how scientists can minimize or eliminate these problems.
Publication
Authors
B.M. Pollock
Keywords
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