"Scientists have discovered, that aliens do exist"
"Studies have shown, that pigs do occasionally fly"
"Leading experts state that Chuck Norris's round house kick breaks the sound barrier and makes you go deaf when it hits you"
We encounter "facts" all the time, whether through newspaper, books, magazine, or internet. Usually there is the statement of "studies have shown" "scientists have discovered" "world leading experts claim" etc, but often the actual source of this prestigious information are not clearly, if at all, identified. For the less inquisitive of us, the knowledge that some supposedly important study/experts is behind our newly acquired fact seems adequate.
However, I am sure a lot of readers, like me, often hear these voices in our head when we read about these alleged truth:
"Is there really a study showing this?"
"What kind of study?"
"Is this a good quality, large sample size, randomized controlled trial of millions of participants across the globe? Or is this a study with 5 participants that a desperate university student managed to flag down on the street to answer his quick survey for university assignment two days before the due date?"
"Who are these so called leading experts? What makes them experts?"
"Scientists? I have friends who just graduated from university Science degree who are technically scientists. I don't think I will necessarily trust what they have to say unless they can back it up with some evidence..."
Okay, maybe you hear less voices than I do. But the point is: sure, not everything in life can be backed up by large randomized controlled trial. However, it is nice to be able to see the evidence, the research studies, that led to the conclusion you are reading about. It is nice to be able to look at the design and size of the study briefly, and decide for yourself how much weight you want to put on your newly acquired knowledge.
For those of you who feel the same way, this website is designed for you.
-Walicow
The important thing is not to stop questioning. Curiosity has its own reason for existing. One cannot help but be in awe when he contemplates the mysteries of eternity, of life, of the marvelous structure of reality. It is enough if one tries merely to comprehend a little of this mystery every day. Never lose a holy curiosity.
- Albert Einstein
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