Truth and Advocacy: Reducing Bias in Policy-Related Research

Perspect Psychol Sci. 2021 Nov;16(6):1226-1241. doi: 10.1177/1745691620959832. Epub 2021 Feb 16.

Abstract

Critics have suggested that psychological research is characterized by a pervasive liberal bias, and this problem may be particularly acute in research on issues related to public policy. In this article, I consider the sources of bias in basic and applied research in the evaluation, conduct, and communication of research. Techniques are suggested for counteracting bias at each of these stages.

Keywords: application; counteracting bias; methodology; policy; scientific.

MeSH terms

  • Bias
  • Communication*
  • Humans
  • Public Policy*
  • Research