Science Advances

The hidden cost of positivity: Ensuring integrity in scientific research

By Joana R. N. Lemos, Eleanor M. Ling, Khemraj Hirani, Jay S. Skyler, Matthias von Herrath

Abstract

Positivity bias skews the scientific record by favoring positive results. Understanding the drivers and impact of such bias provides a foundation for creating solutions.

The paper

Joana R. N. Lemos, Eleanor M. Ling, Khemraj Hirani, Jay S. Skyler, Matthias von Herrath

University of Miami

Science Advances, 23 Sep 2026

doi.org/10.1126/sciadv.ael2131 PubMed 42777050