I read with interest the Ex Libris article "Doing Research on People" (November 16, 1987, p. 23) by Ruth Macklin. I was very disappointed by the tone and approach she took. Perhaps some of this suffered from the space limitations in which she was forced to work, and I hope to one day read the book. However, the article is all that many people may get to see. Since she has a very important and visible role in a major medical college, herr attitudes undoubtedly will influence others. Thus, I think that the ambiguity and imprecision in the piece should be resolved.
should not have to resort to the circumlocu tion of"hav(ing) an interest in the success of the research." Most research is not succes ful in coming to an unambiguous answer Requiring a personal interest in success as a condition for participation would greatly re strict research. Altruism, curiosity ...
