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In Science, Error Isn't Fraud

Pollack, Robert

The article "In Science, Error Isn't Fraud" by Robert E. Pollack discusses the controversy surrounding Nobel laureate Dr. David Baltimore, who faced accusations of research fraud following a 1986 immunology paper. Pollack argues that while errors were found in the paper, they were not indicative of fraud. He emphasizes that the scientific method inherently involves the recognition and correction of errors, which is essential for the advancement of knowledge. Pollack warns that equating scientific error with fraud, as Congressman John Dingell appears to be doing through his investigation, threatens the integrity of scientific inquiry and could discourage future generations from pursuing careers in science. He expresses concern that this conflation could lead to a decline in the nation's scientific and technological progress.

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Academic Units
Biological Sciences
Published Here
September 13, 2024