I don't think he's commenting on statistical analysis, but rather saying that a scientist should follow the clues where ever it may take them, instead of looking for the clues that will get them where they want to be. And of course they fuck up, too.
http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/John_P._A._Ioannidis
"Most published findings are probably false."
http://www.economist.com/news/briefing/21588057-scientists-t...
Also, I vaguely remember a study in 'some journal' that looked at all it's P values[0] and found an alarming number of them parked right at the limit of acceptance (.05), more so than chance could assume. If anyone remembers this study and can provide actual proof (not my terrible memory), I would be very thankful.
[0]https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/P-value