How Biases Affects research

Introduction:

Research is often regarded as pursuing the truth and knowledge, developing understanding. However, the process of discovery is far from neutral. Hidden unconscious or conscious biases can shape the direction of studies, influence results, and alter conclusions. These biases are often dismissed, leading to misleading or incomplete findings. That is why biases in the scientific field matter, and ensuring that research truly serves its purpose is essential.

Understanding the significance and importance of considering these biases in science is crucial, as they may alter the results of a study and affect the underlying context. Bias goes beyond everyday life, becoming extremely important in scientific thinking. Especially when you research ideas and information, there may be a bias in the study, which will ultimately compromise the study's integrity and limit the generalization of the findings, as biases may affect the overall research results. As stated by Angela Potochnik, a professor of philosophy at the university of Cincinnati, that influences problematic values such as, “pernicious values can shape scientific research, is regrettably has been the case for racism and sexism for far too much of science’s history” (Potochnik, 2020, paras.4). Potochnik explains that pernicious values, which are a harmful effects of values that gradually create a bigger adverse effect had driving research, causing the shift of attention away from more marginalized problems. Potochnik uses the example of medical research on women’s health to be overlooked because of the inherent lack of need for this research. Even though studies are conducted, if there is still a bias in the participants, there will be an improper influence on the research results when considering real-life situations and how biases negatively influence the context of scientific thinking. Considering these real-life situations, it is evident that there are dangers of biases, especially in research.

Conclusion:

Biases in research are an inevitable reality, but they do not have to undermine the integrity of the findings. By understanding the existence of these biases in each phase of the research, we can better judge and reduce their impact. Striving for objectivity and transparency is the key to producing reliable, valid research that contributes to the current body of knowledge. By being self-aware, researchers can work towards ensuring that their work reflects a more accurate, unbiased representation of reality.

Works Cited:

Potochnik, A. (2020, August 9). Awareness of Our Biases Is Essential to Good Science. Scientific American. https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/awareness-of-our-biases-is-essential-to-good-science/