Hope, hype and hypocrisy

Abstract

“The results presented in this paper open new approaches for future treatments of cancer.” “The new institute will provide the framework in which scientists and clinicians can work together to develop new treatments for patients.” “This start‐up company will bring breakthrough research all the way from the laboratory to the clinic.” These are just three examples of the claims that abound in scientific publications and press releases. To the unsuspecting reader, these give the impression that the cure for cancer—or any other terrible disease—is just around the corner, if only we could be more patient and invest a bit more. Yet, seldom is reality equal to the promise of a press release. This hype is particularly prominent in the biomedical sciences because it preys on the hopes of sick people who thus become gullible and intoxicated by the promise of a cure. The maxim “paper does not refuse ink” does not absolve scientists of their responsibility to present facts in a balanced and reasonable way. Many do so, but usually …