The influence of medical professionalism on scientific practice

Abstract

This paper examines how the practise of science in medicine may be subverted by the professionalism of medicine. The requirements of science as regards the axiom of the burden of proof and research design may be inevitably entangled with the influence of authority. This entanglement may be particularly strong in medical research because of the way the profession works and is organized. The nature and possible effects of this entanglement are explored by examining the cultural differences between scientists and professionals and their approach to authority. Then the nature of the axiom of burdens of proof and research design are described, followed by accompanying discussions of how aspects of authority and professional organization may influence them. Finally, concluding comments address ways forward.