According to Scientist 2’s viewpoint, which of the following observations provides the strongest argument against using placebos in clinical research?
A. The fact that patients sometimes deceive researchers
B. The danger of adverse reactions to sugar pills
C. The potential to skew the results of the research
D. The possibility that patients might choose ineffective treatments

Scientist 2
There are many reasons why placebos shouldn’t be used in clinical research. For example, placebos encourage deception in the doctor-patient relationship. Because this relationship is crucial to the confidence of both the doctor and the patient, and therefore the overall success of the patient’s involvement in a study, placebos not only deceive patients, but can also have an adverse affect on research results. Placebos also violate patients’ autonomy, or their right to choose treatment. While they can choose to be involved in a study, patients are unable to select their own course of treatment because it chosen for them.
Some argue that the placebo is worth its implementation in order to evaluate for the occurrence of the placebo effect. However, such action may skew the results of the study. For example, placebo-related changes could be over-estimated. Different illnesses, by definition, will react differently to the placebo. For example, in the instance of chronic pain or mood disorders, it’s possible for patients to show spontaneous improvement. The placebo effect can also result from contact with doctors or a respected professional. Patients are vulnerable to their environment, which significantly affects the psychological results of the placebo.
Due to its capability to skew research results, the placebo shouldn’t be used in clinical research.