M. Brandon Westover|Kenneth D. Westover|Matt T. Bianchi
Significance testing as perverse probabilistic reasoning
Massachusetts General Hospital|Harvard University|Harvard University|Massachusetts General Hospital|Harvard University
truth claims medical literature rely heavily statistical significance testing unfortunately physicians misunderstand underlying probabilistic logic significance tests consequently often misinterpret results nearuniversal misunderstanding highlighted means simple quiz administered 246 physicians two major academic hospitals proportion incorrect responses exceeded 90 solid understanding fundamental concepts probability theory becoming essential rational interpretation medical information essay provides technically sound review concepts accessible medical audience also briefly review debate cognitive sciences regarding physicians aptitude probabilistic inference