| − | '''Fudging''' is the process of making data agree with predictions. It is of no value in science, and most scientists agree that it is dishonest. | + | '''Fudging''' is the process of altering [[data]] to agree with [[prediction]]s and desired results. It is of no value in [[science]], since the results have been modified from their factual state and thus cannot be considered to be valid and reliable. Most scientists agree that it is a dishonest practice, akin to altering written records bit by bit until they say something completely different than before. Rather than drawing conclusions from the data, the conclusions are pre-established before the experiments. The data is then pushed and prodded to fit into the assumed results. When this doesn't work, full-scale fudging often occurs, where the data is falsified to meet expectations. |