Kalliainen, Loree K.2012-02-272012-02-272012-01https://hdl.handle.net/11299/121126University of Minnesota M.A. thesis. January 2012. Major: Philosophy. Advisor: Michael Root. 1 computer file (PDF); v, 58 pages, appendices A-B.Nonsurgical physicians have increasingly advocated for and adopted the use of data derived from well-done scientific studies (evidence-based medicine) to assist in decision making in patient care. Surgeons have, in general, resisted incorporating evidence-based medicine into their practices, and most surgical research has been based on expert opinions or findings from small groups of patients. This work will cover arguments for and against a hierarchy of evidence and for and against application of higher levels of evidence in the field of surgery.en-USPhilosophyThesis or Dissertation