Work

Credibility crisis in agricultural economics

Year: 2022

Type: article

Abstract: We provide empirical evidence of research practices that can undermine the credibility of empirical research in agricultural economics. We find that, in four popular journals, most studies are underpowered, a characteristic that, when coupled with publication bias, yields unreliable and exaggerated effect sizes. This problem is exacerbated by selective reporting of statistically significant results and multiple hypothesis testing without any adjustments to statistical inferences. Survey respondents self‐report engaging in practices that are consistent with these empirical findings. Addressing these problems in agricultural economics will require that editors, reviewers, and donors change the norms and incentives for authors.

Source: Applied Economic Perspectives and Policy

DOI: 10.1002/aepp.13323

Authors: Paul J. Ferraro, Pallavi Shukla

Institutions: Johns Hopkins University, Deakin University

Language: English

Topic: Meta-analysis and systematic reviews

Subfield: Statistics, Probability and Uncertainty

Field: Decision Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,300