In 2011, a group of researchers conducted a study designed to find an impossible result. Their study involved real people, truthfully reported data, and commonplace statistical analyses. So how did they do it? The answer lies in a statistical method scientists often use to try to figure out whether their results mean something, or if they're random noise. James A. Smith explores p-hacking. [Directed by Anton Bogaty, narrated by Addison Anderson, music by Salil Bhayani, cAMP Studio].

James A. Smith: The method that can "prove" almost anything

The method that can "prove" almost anything

A thought experiment with tea tasting reveals the misuse of p-values, highlighting the peril of drawing conclusions from chance.

P-hacking, akin to cherry-picking dart throws for a bullseye, showcases the fragility of statistical significance in research.

Pre-registering research plans could enhance scientific integrity, ensuring experiments aren't twisted to find preferred outcomes.