OHSU

Exposing False Claims

False claims about this research were fabricated by quoting pieces of information out of context from a variety of unrelated sources. In addition, comments made by the researchers were at times so heavily edited that their meaning was changed.

Here is a clear example demonstrating how the false case against this research was built:

PETA sent it's supporters the following edited quote by one of the scientists claiming it to be proof that the research is being conducted to develop a cure:
  • [i]f people want to extrapolate [to humans the conclusions that he reaches with regard to altering sheep's sexual orientations], that's up to them."

Here is the actual quote from the researcher (Stormshak) in context:

  • "I think it would be premature to make any kinds of extrapolations," Stormshak said. "The human is so much higher in the vertebrate scale of animals -- there are many other factors that could be involved."
  • Stormshak does believe the research could apply to animals closer to the sheep on the vertebrate scale, however.  Aside from his goal to understand the animals better, Stormshak says the knowledge could help breeders choose rams in the future. "We've put in a renewal on this grant for another five years," Stormshak said. "If the grant is renewed it would be five more years of study on this subject." Stormshak is not unaware of the possible interpretation from his studies to humans.
  • "If people want to extrapolate, that's up to them," he said. "But we're doing this study strictly on the sheep." - Source: The Daily Barometer (Oregon State University newspaper) 11/8/02

The full, unedited quote clearly demonstrates that the researchers are not extrapolating their research to humans.

In reading the entire article, it is clear that the scientists have repeatedly stressed the limits of this research and the fact that it is not being conducted to develop any sort of treatment.

For those interested in learning more about the false allegations made by PETA, a biologist/blogger unaffiliated with OHSU or OSU looked into the allegations. Here’s what he found:

  • "PETA has joined the company of intelligent designists and global warming deniers, those who misreport scientific research, cherry-pick results, and flat-out lie to further their political agenda. PETA picked Dr. Roselli because sheep are adorable, unlike mice or flies, and because gay rights is a hot-button issue. They lied about his work and his intention because they want to turn as much of the public as they can against scientists who use animals."