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Is there an intrinsic logical error in null hypothesis significance tests? Commentary on: “Null hypothesis significance tests. A mix-up of two different theories: the basis for widespread confusion and numerous misinterpretations”

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Abstract

In Schneider (Scientometrics 102:411–432, 2015), the author argues that there is an intrinsic logical problem in null hypothesis significance test and thus urges to use it carefully. We agree with the conclusion but not with the main argument, although there are other arguments that we agree with. In this letter to editor, we want to clarify further this issue of validity and applicability of null hypothesis significance test.

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References

  • Glänzel, W. (2010). On reliability and robustness of scientometrics indicators based on stochastic models. An evidence-based opinion paper. Journal of Informetrics, 4, 313–319.

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  • Schneider, J. W. (2015). Null hypothesis significance tests. A mix-up of two different theories: the basis for widespread confusion and numerous misinterpretations. Scientometrics, 102, 411–432.

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Acknowledgements

The above argument starts from a discussion with a few of colleagues including Wolfgang Glänzel, Liying Yang, Menghui Li during and also shortly after ISSI2017 at Wuhan city of China, and later with Per Ahlgren. I would like to thank all those people for participating discussion with me on this issue.

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  1. School of Systems Science, Beijing Normal University, Beijing, 100875, People’s Republic of China

    Jinshan Wu

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  1. Jinshan Wu
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Correspondence to Jinshan Wu.

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Wu, J. Is there an intrinsic logical error in null hypothesis significance tests? Commentary on: “Null hypothesis significance tests. A mix-up of two different theories: the basis for widespread confusion and numerous misinterpretations”. Scientometrics 115, 621–625 (2018). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11192-018-2656-3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11192-018-2656-3

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