For any controlled scientific study, a scientist starts with an observation, does some research to develop a hypothesis, and then designs an experiment that compares some baseline group with a test group. Data are then collected to confirm or refute the hypothesis.

Review the following study, and discuss the following 4 questions aboutwhether the researchers correctly followed the scientific method:

• What was wrong with Wakefield's study? Discuss at least 1 variable or approach that should have been controlled or assessed.
  • Consider the source of some of his data (parental memory, for example), the small sample size, and whether he considered other variables (genetics, diet, and so on) that could have resulted in symptoms in these children.
• Discuss the importance of a control group when using the scientific method.
• Did Wakefield deserve to be barred from medical practice?
• What were the consequences of his inflated conclusions?