Symptoms of pathological science

Irving Langmuir has identified several recurring patterns in cases of pathological science:

The maximum effect that is observed is produced by a causative agent of barely detectable intensity, and the magnitude of the effect is substantially independent of the intensity of the cause.

The effect is of a magnitude that remains close to the limit of detectability, or many measurements are necessary because of the very low statistical significance of the results.

Theories outside the field's paradigm are suggested.

Criticisms are met by ad hoc excuses thought up on the spur of the moment.

The ratio of supporters to critics rises then falls gradually to oblivion.

To these we may add the following:

The remarkable result is specific for a "special" system.

Some special technique or equipment is involved.

The result requires a stunning departure from the paradigms that fully determine results in all other comparable systems, including those studied by the authors.