Which statement illustrates bias in scientific research?

Question

A microbiologist publishes data funded by the National Institutes of Health that does not support their original hypothesis.

An ecologist publishes data funded by a construction company which supports their original hypothesis that an endangered animal's territory is not endangered.

A zoologist publishes incomplete data on sloths which supports their original hypothesis and notes that more research is required.

A botanist publishes data about plant growth that does not support their original hypothesis and is replicable.

Answer 1

The statement that illustrates bias in scientific research is:

"An ecologist publishes data funded by a construction company which supports their original hypothesis that an endangered animal's territory is not endangered."

This scenario suggests a potential conflict of interest, as the funding source (the construction company) may have a vested interest in the outcome of the research, potentially influencing the results to align with their interests. This raises concerns about bias in the scientific findings.