Why Most Published Research Findings Are False by John Ioannidis

Argues that a large proportion of reported scientific findings are likely false positives, driven by low statistical power, multiple testing, flexible analytic choices, selective reporting, and biases reinforced by publication incentives. Using a Bayesian framework, it explains how low prior probabilities, limited power, and bias reduce the positive predictive value of claimed effects. It calls for reforms such as larger, better-designed studies, preregistration, transparency, and replication to make research more reliable.