A formal approach to the problem of reproducing experimental effects with homeopathic potencies.
OBJECTIVE
This paper investigates a general concept of reproducibility with regard to its application on experiments with homeopathic potencies.


METHODS
The experimental situation for distinguishing a homeopathic potency and its solvent is described in a formal way. This allows the application of the weak law of large numbers. Experimental arrangements are described in a formal way. This allows conclusions to be drawn about the possible existence of nonlocal influences on an experiment.


CONCLUSIONS
From a pragmatic as well as from a global point of view, a general concept of reproducibility supports decisions whether or not effects in experiments with homeopathic potencies do exist.
Weingärtner
Otto
O
Med. Wiss./Grundlagenforschung, Pharm. Fabrik Dr. Reckeweg and Co. GmbH, Bensheim, Germany. Otto.Weingaertner@reckeweg.de
D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic / Q000379:methods*; D004305:Dose-Response Relationship, Drug; D006705:Homeopathy / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards*; D006801:Humans; D008954:Models, Biological; D010919:Placebos / Q000008:administration & dosage; D010936:Plant Extracts / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D015203:Reproducibility of Results; D012107:Research Design; D012996:Solutions / Q000008:administration & dosage
D010919:Placebos; D010936:Plant Extracts; D012996:Solutions