I recently received an announcement for a conference on “Inflammation and Autoimmunity.”The topic sounded interesting, but as I read further I saw some red flags: A gathering of healthcare leaders with a shared vision. This event focuses on the the [sic] true causes and effects of inflammatory and autoimmune diseases,… read more "Environmental Medicine – Not Your Average Specialty"
The Mythbusters of Psychology
Karl Popper said “Science must begin with myths and with the criticism of myths.” Popular psychology is a prolific source of myths. It has produced widely held beliefs that “everyone knows are true” but that are contradicted by psychological research. A new book does an excellent job of mythbusting: 50… read more "The Mythbusters of Psychology"
All Medicines Are Poison!
That’s the title of a new book by Melvin H. Kirschner, M.D. When I first saw the title, I expected a polemic against conventional medicine. The first line of the Preface reassured me: “Everything we do has a risk-benefit ratio.” Dr. Kirschner took the title from his first pharmacology lecture… read more "All Medicines Are Poison!"
Military Medicine in Iraq
Doctors get a lot of flak these days without ever going near a battle zone. They are bombarded with accusations of not caring about their patients, of being shills for Big Pharma, of being motivated by money, of killing patients with medical errors and drug side effects. In addition, they… read more "Military Medicine in Iraq"
Trituration Proving of the Light of Saturn
Homeopathy is based on the idea that “like cures like” and the “law of infinitesimals.” If coffee keeps you awake, diluted coffee should act as a sleeping potion. The less coffee, the stronger the effect. You can even dilute away all the molecules of coffee: the water will remember it.… read more "Trituration Proving of the Light of Saturn"
The Montagnier “Homeopathy” Study
A recent study is being cited as support for homeopathy. For instance, the Homeopathy World Community website says Luc Montagnier Foundation Proves Homeopathy Works. Dana Ullman cites it in the comments to this blog And I assume that you all have seen the new research by Nobel Prize-winning virologist Luc… read more "The Montagnier “Homeopathy” Study"
Delusions About Dilutions Never Cease
In “Challenging Challenges” (Swift, Oct 17), Jeff Wagg posted a video with weird sounds and the voice of John Benneth, who is challenging Randi’s Million Dollar Challenge. I recently had an e-mail exchange with Benneth that was very illuminating. A former unsuccessful applicant for the MDC, he is considering re-applying. He… read more "Delusions About Dilutions Never Cease"
Resveratrol: Of Mice and Men
We would all like to live longer. The most promising longevity research indicates that severe calorie restriction might extend life span, but such a diet is difficult to follow. Resveratrol, a phytochemical found in red wine, has been evaluated as a possible way out of the dilemma. When given to… read more "Resveratrol: Of Mice and Men"
Resveratrol – Wine Not Take a Miracle Pill to Live Longer?
People who drink red wine in moderation tend to live longer than those who abstain from alcohol completely. Unfortunately, alcohol comes with certain other unwanted effects that you may have noticed from your own experiences late at night or the morning after. Wouldn’t it be great if we could figure… read more "Resveratrol – Wine Not Take a Miracle Pill to Live Longer?"
“Obesity Linked to Stupidity”- an Example of Stupid Reporting
A news story on Science a Gogo reports that obesity is linked to stupidity, according to a new study based on brain scans. Apparently the reporter can’t read. That’s not at all what the study showed. What the Study Really Said The study was entitled “Brain structure and obesity.”It was… read more "“Obesity Linked to Stupidity”- an Example of Stupid Reporting"