What is a consequence of conflicts of interest?

Conflicts of interest can significantly increase the likelihood of bias in research. When a researcher has competing interests, financial or otherwise, it can affect their objectivity and judgment. For instance, if a researcher stands to benefit personally or financially from the outcomes of their research, their findings may be skewed to favor those interests, intentionally or unintentionally. This kind of bias can lead to selective reporting of results, manipulation of data, or failure to disclose adverse findings, thereby compromising the validity of the research and undermining trust in scientific findings.

While decreased transparency and negative impacts on collaboration are valid concerns, the core issue centers on the susceptibility to bias. This alteration in a researcher's approach due to external interests can fundamentally affect the conclusions drawn and the reliability of research outcomes. Therefore, recognizing and managing conflicts of interest is crucial for safeguarding the integrity of research processes and ensuring that conclusions are based on objective evidence rather than influenced by personal stakes.