Process of Science: Assume We Have Data Indicating a Strong

question 17

Multiple Choice

Process of Science: Assume we have data indicating a strong positive correlation between acupuncture treatments and recovery of patients from,say,cocaine addiction.However,let's also assume that every hypothesis we have for a mechanism of action (i.e. ,how acupuncture could work to help cure addiction) can be shown to be false.The patients,however,all claim to know that the acupuncture is what cured them.Which of the following conclusions are supported by our data?
-Must acupuncture be responsible for the patients' recovery?

• A)No.Acupuncture may be responsible for the healing,or it may not.Correlation does not necessarily imply causation.
• B)Yes.If the study was run by qualified M.D.s,then we should respect their findings that acupuncture cured these patients.
• C)No.Acupuncture is hippie,new age stuff,and is not respected by reputable doctors.
• D)Yes.The patients stated afterwards that they knew it had helped,and these people know their own bodies better than we do.

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Definitions:

Preferred Beliefs

Ideals or convictions that individuals prioritize or hold in high regard due to personal values, experiences, or desires.

Hierarchy

An arrangement or institution where individuals or entities are hierarchically positioned above or below others based on their status or power.

Domain-specific Goals

Objectives that are relevant and applied within a specific area of activity, knowledge, or interest.

Domain-general Goals

Objectives or aims that are not specific to a particular field or discipline but are applicable across multiple contexts and situations.