In an attempt to ensure the integrity of articles published in medical journals, all submissions undergo peer review. There is “a widespread misimpression that passing peer review is the scientific equivalent of the Good Housekeeping seal of approval,” according to a New York Times article. Unfortunately, it’s not uncommon for errors to slip through the cracks or for journal articles to be discredited after publication.
For Science’s Gatekeepers, a Credibility Gap explores the complications of the review process. The article dispels myths by shedding light on shortcomings of the review process. I recommend it for anyone who gets news on journal article findings via the media (and that’s all of you!).