Which of the following assumptions about the use of placebos is implicit in Scientist 1’s viewpoint?
F. Placebos are more cost-effective than other research tools.
G. Placebos are significantly more difficult to administer than real medications.
H. Real experimental medications are often dangerous to patients.
J. The use of placebos is safe for most patients.

Scientist 1
Placebos are an important aspect of clinical research for many reasons. Not only do they establish a control group for the test treatment in question, but they also help address the issue of mind over matter, which is an important issue when working towards treatment for a particular illness. The body is a powerful life force, with natural recuperative abilities.
A placebo encourages such recuperation. 

Placebos also address the psychological aspect of illness. Because patients are unaware of whether they are receiving treatment or a placebo, the possibility of receiving treatment often provides patients with a psychological boost. The use of placebos addresses the question of whether a person’s positive attitude may be important in recovery from illness. As a result, the placebo effect—a change in the patient’s condition due to the idea of treatment, rather than its biological effectiveness—may be a measurable change in behavior as a result of the belief in treatment.
For both their physical and psychological benefits, placebos should be used in clinical research.