Related to the question, “What scientific idea is ready for retirement?” at Edge.org, Andrew Gelman reports this email exchange:

Patrick Steigler: So, what would [your] opinion be on the scientific idea that is ready for retirement?

Gelman: I guess it’s a good thing they didn’t ask me!

Steigler: How about the retirement of p value < .05 for significance?

Gelman: Yeah, but that’s too easy. It’s like if someone asks for a pop music recommendation and you say The Beatles.

Steigler: True, but the idea could still use some drum beating about since it does not seem to be as fashionable as The Beatles yet (but hopefully some day!).

I couldn’t agree more.