Veterinary homeopathy: a defence

The International Association for Veterinary Homeopathy (IAVH) is disappointed with how our colleagues try to influence the position of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons in relation to homeopathy.1, 2 The many errors and omissions in this paper suggests to the authors that it was not reviewed by anyone qualified in veterinary homeopathy. Remarkably, the authors’ critical approach is mainly based on theoretical arguments on why homeopathy cannot possibly work. We recognise this approach but believe it to be based on the a priori perceived implausibility of any conceivable mechanism of action, also called plausibility bias.3 This impedes any thorough, unbiased assessment of the clinical evidence. Plausibility bias can even lead to violations of scientific standards of research analysis, as shown by the Australian National Health and Medical Research Council review report that concluded that homeopathy is not effective.4 Robert Hahn,...
Source: Veterinary Record - Category: Veterinary Research Authors: Tags: Letters and notices Source Type: research