On the Intersection of Science and Fiction
In the midst of the Coronavirus, a time when a global pandemic should be bringing people together, we've found ourselves not just fighting a virus, but also fighting misinformation. In addition to the continuous updates on infection rates and death tolls, we find an equally constant stream of conspiracy theories, pseudoscience, fake cures, and shoddy research. Dr. Fauci, a respected and seasoned immunologist, has been vilified, while ex-con doctors on YouTube garner attention and followers by citing mistruths and sensational falsehoods.
The list of groups against evidence-based medicine and science grows by the day - anti-vaxxers, flat-Earthers, climate change deniers, no maskers, and more. The conspiracy theories surrounding coronavirus are so numerous that the World Health Organization created a Mythbusters section just to disprove WhatsApp circulated cures, debunk suggested deep state causes (5G did not cause the pandemic), and try to offer clarity in a sea of confusion.
What happened to science - and the belief in it? It's clear that our instant gratification society wants instant news and information, whether it has been vetted or not. But why the blatant and purposeful disdain, disregard and disbelief? Where did the idea form that doctors and scientists are paid off by pharmaceutical companies or that Bill Gates wants to insert microchips in everyone? When did peer-reviewed, evidence-based medicine become equated with backroom deals from the industry? Sadly, much of this started in dark corners of the internet, or from researchers ostracized by their professional circles. Some stem from misunderstanding, while others from reasonable, albeit easily disproved, concerns.
For those fighting these battles, we must be vigilant against the stream of misinformation. Citing sources lends credibility, as does consistency. Honest discussions and open dialogue achieve more than blanket statements and derision. While the concept of “agreeing to disagree” doesn’t quite apply when lives are at stake, buy-in and compliance are more likely when both parties and sides feel respected.
Doctors, scientists, and those within the medical and public health communities continue to fight for their patients, the public, their professions, and frankly, for the truth. The truth remains - masks save lives, social distancing helps, staying home is best. In other scenarios, it's that mammograms save lives while thermograms don’t, vaccines save lives while celery juice only serves as hydration.
The thing is - skepticism is healthy and critical analysis is necessary, but need to be based on facts and evidence from reputable sources. In this new age of fake news and science fiction, I urge you to be mindful when sorting between fact and fiction.