Analysis reveals common sources of bias in scientific research

Yet another finding is that the relative magnitude of biases closely reflects the level of attention they receive in the literature. That is, the kinds of biases researchers are most concerned about are, in fact, the ones they should be concerned about.

“Our understanding of bias is improving, and our priorities are set on the right targets,” Dr Fanelli said, though he noted that researchers should not become complacent when it comes to bias.

“We perhaps understand bias better, but we are far from having rid science of it. Indeed, our results suggest that the challenge might be greater than many think because interventions might need to be tailored to the needs and problems of individual disciplines of fields. One-size-fits all solutions are unlikely to work.”