#2726: Methodology Trial

XKCD comic, described below.
Transcript

[Cueball stands in front of a poster holding a pointer. The poster shows a scatter plot with four points and error bars, with one data point labeled "Subgroup" is marked with an asterisk and is placed somewhat higher up than the other three points.]

Cueball: However, we see clear evidence that the treatment is more effective than the placebo for some subgroups.

Off-panel voice: Thank you.

Off-panel voice: However, we can now reveal that the London team was studying the real treatment. Both groups in your study got a placebo.

Cueball: Aw, maaan...

[Caption below panel:]

Researchers hate it when you do placebo controlled trials of their methodology.


(Sourced from explainxkcd.com)

Title text:If you think THAT'S unethical, you should see the stuff we approved via our Placebo IRB.


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