falsifying

Falsifying is the act of presenting untrue or manipulated information as if it were true, with the intent to deceive. It can refer to data, documents, statements, or evidence across domains such as science, journalism, law, and finance. Falsification is distinct from error or misinterpretation, which are not intentional.

In science, falsifiability is a key concept introduced by Karl Popper. A hypothesis is considered scientific if it could, in principle, be disproven by observation. Falsification involves testing and potentially refuting hypotheses, rather than merely accumulating supporting evidence. Data falsification refers to deliberate alteration or fabrication of data, selective reporting, or manipulation of methods to mislead. This represents a serious breach of research integrity and can lead to retractions, loss of credibility, and sanctions.

Detection and response rely on multiple mechanisms. Peer review, replication attempts, data audits, and provenance tracking help reveal falsification. Consequences may include retraction of publications, institutional investigations, funding penalties, and professional discipline.

In legal and administrative contexts, falsifying documents or records can constitute fraud, perjury, or obstruction of justice, with civil or criminal penalties. Preventive measures include audit trails, preregistration of studies, data sharing, independent replication, and robust ethics oversight to reduce opportunities for deception.

The concept of falsification also has philosophical significance in distinguishing science from non-science. It emphasizes testability and the potential to refute claims, rather than merely confirming them.