Pulse Brain · Growing Health Evidence Index
Tier 4 — Narrative / commentaryPeer-reviewed

Robust research needs many lines of evidence

Marcus R. Munafò, George Davey Smith

Nature · 2018

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Summary

Munafò and Davey Smith (2018) present a methodological perspective on the importance of triangulating multiple independent lines of evidence to reach robust scientific conclusions. As suggested by the title, the authors argue that reliance on single studies or methodologies risks spurious findings, and that rigorous science requires convergent evidence from diverse sources and approaches. This framework applies broadly across disciplines, including food systems and agricultural research.

UK applicability

The methodological principles outlined apply directly to UK-conducted research on farming, nutrition, and soil health. The framework may inform how research councils and policy bodies in the United Kingdom evaluate and prioritise funding for food systems research.

Key measures

Methodological standards for evidence evaluation; principles for research robustness and replicability

Outcomes reported

The paper discusses principles for strengthening the evidential basis of scientific findings across disciplines. It addresses the need for multiple independent lines of evidence to support robust conclusions in research.

Theme
Measurement & metrics
Subject
Measurement methods & nutrient profiling
Study type
Commentary
Study design
Narrative review
Source type
Peer-reviewed study
Status
Published
Geography
International
System type
Other
DOI
10.1038/d41586-018-01023-3
Catalogue ID
BFmor3gaas-hz1ymw

Topic tags

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