Discovery bias as an Ethical Problem

Critical Thinking and Reflection 

“ Discovery bias” is an ethical problem that arises when scientists overvalue the benefits of an experiment and undervalue the risks associated with it. In such cases, the researchers or scientists are more interested in coming up with a new body of evidence even when it entails using unsustainable and risky methods. I believe that similar ethical concerns exist in other fields. For instance, medical practice can be affected by “treatment bias” when the caregivers focus on using certain interventions that they perceive to be beneficial even when the actual risks may not be well known. In the case of errand-running, “driving bias” may arise when performance zeal may motivate an individual to use a given means or transport model to achieve the desired positive outcomes. 

Biases can limit the ability of a person to identify and evaluate alternatives that may exist in the world. In the case of research, for instance, the “discovery bias” makes it difficult for the researchers to carefully explore a wide range of situations that may arise at the end of the experiment. The society expects scientists to make discoveries and add to the existing body of research evidence. Such professional expectations can result in discovery bias when scientists become more interested in making discoveries. Besides, the scientists may not be able to examine alternatives to their findings or discoveries that are contrary to those reported in their studies. 

Publishing the full methods and findings of the study by Fouchler and Kawaoka can increase our ability to protect the public from future pandemics. When the methods are made clear, other researchers are also able to conduct similar studies and compare their findings with those reported by Fouchler and Kawaoka. Furthermore, the approach will accord other researchers the opportunity to critically evaluate the findings of the initial study by Fouchler and Kawaoka and identify its potential shortcomings.