Discover and read the best of Twitter Threads about #perchgate
Most recents (2)
(1/n) This comment and our reply on our #Nature paper looking at fish behaviour and #oceanacidification has gotten a lot attention. Unfortunately, some of it has been very negative and unprofessional. Here’s my POV.
(2/n) First, this is a topic that folks feel passionate about. That’s great, and I’m glad the paper and both comments have sparked discussion. This is a healthy part of the scientific process and how we progress as a community.
(3/n) However, devolving into name calling and mud-slinging helps nothing, and is harmful esp to those of us without permanent positions on all sides. We don’t always have to agree scientifically, but please let’s be civil and respectful.
After #PruittGate, #PruittData, or #perchgate, people wonder why someone would tamper with their own data. If I look at my own experience in prominent places (Ivy League and others), it seems pretty obvious.
PIs do not have much time to do research. Superstars have even less time. The time devoted to experimental work is obviously scarce. But the time for the kind of deep boring and stressful thinking you have to do to come up with new ideas is also running out.
They then seem more interested in the story they are following than in an impartial quest for knowledge. As long as they continue the story that made them stars, no one will wonder what they are doing.
