Acupuncture - Cover Sheet

SCI Home | SCI Faculty Page | Case Notes | Reference List | Users Notes

Author - John Shepherd - Fall 1997

Case Purpose This case is an application of science in the area of "Alternative Medicine." We attempt to explore the margins of traditional science from the strictly scientific perspective. This case may help skills in the critical evaluation of data sources.

Relation to Texts Under the heading of "Parascientism" (section 6.6) Ziman discusses the boundaries of science, and the ways in which the scientific mantel is used to promote a variety of causes. The case also provides opportunities for discussion of Objectivity and Doubt (Ziman sec 5.6) in the scientific community; Specialization & Authority (Ziman sec 6.1); and Dissent & Selection (Ziman sec 6.3).

Description of Case Materials The case consists of web and student materials concerning alternative medicine; a few articles from the refereed medical literature; and links to the NIH Office of Alternative Medicine.

Case Use Students are first asked to bring in printed examples of alternative medicine (aromatherapy, herbal medicine, faith healing). In one class, students were asked to deivse tests of the effectiveness of one of the therapies brought to their group. In the next class, groups examined the reference material on acupuncture. Part of the focus of our analysis was on the objectivity of the data reported and on the difference between peer-reviewed and unrefereed sources of information.

Reference List