I am a former researcher and current high school teacher. Thank you so much for this timely and informative piece!
I was really struck by the idea of the general public’s concept of research as “looking up” info vs. scientists discovering new information. That’s a helpful reminder to me in how I talk with my students, and of course in the broader context of scientific mis- and dis-information.
I would love to see an administration establish a weekly "Science Press Conference" that rotates scientists and researchers (layperson & public speaking friendly) from a variety of fields talking about the latest scientific pursuits, valuable studies, discoveries, etc.
Seeing scientists speak about science on a regular basis might be helpful to not only educate the public, but build trust between the public and the scientific community. Maybe, just maybe, it might help the public understand how science works, why things seemingly change so much, and create a more scientifically-literate public.
NIH had a program on Plain Language. If we could use those guidelines - language found in most circles- could help us with sharing the message. I.E. fickle, ubiquitous are not words many folks I know understand. A “mythical path” will be red flags for many in my life. Not to dummy down, but finding common ground/finding common ground. Just my experience with friendz with different and valuable lives
I use Western Medicine but I use other modalities such as Homeopathy and acupuncture that work really well for me. Part of the problem with our medical system is exclusivity of Western Medicine. This is different in other countries that use many modalities and so create more trust from people to the medical establishment and then people like RFK jr. cannot get such a toehold because there are better informed people that can counter their disinformation.
As a person in the middle of trying hard to give people the best advice to fight for their families and businesses during COVID, it was so heartbreaking to reach out to amazing public health professionals to find ways to save lives only to see few trusted best practices to save their lives.
Having watched several hours of RFK Jr's hearing yesterday, I think it's interesting how often he mentioned how much healthier Americans were during his uncle's JFK's (Democratic) presidency – while trying to get a job working for a Republican president.
Cold air around my neck does make me sick. I never understood why my mother wore scraves and now in my late 60s if I don't wear a scarf in the cold I will get a sore throat.
I am a former researcher and current high school teacher. Thank you so much for this timely and informative piece!
I was really struck by the idea of the general public’s concept of research as “looking up” info vs. scientists discovering new information. That’s a helpful reminder to me in how I talk with my students, and of course in the broader context of scientific mis- and dis-information.
I would love to see an administration establish a weekly "Science Press Conference" that rotates scientists and researchers (layperson & public speaking friendly) from a variety of fields talking about the latest scientific pursuits, valuable studies, discoveries, etc.
Seeing scientists speak about science on a regular basis might be helpful to not only educate the public, but build trust between the public and the scientific community. Maybe, just maybe, it might help the public understand how science works, why things seemingly change so much, and create a more scientifically-literate public.
Clearly, we'll have to wait a few years......
Oh what important and fascinating info presented so expertly. Really enjoyed this education break. Keep 'em coming.
During consulting I would hear people use “research” when all they did was do an info search.
That was great! I hope to see Dr Sweetland on your show again
Build trust, use plain language, repeat repeat repeat! Can we send this to the DNC to listen to before their meeting this weekend??
NIH had a program on Plain Language. If we could use those guidelines - language found in most circles- could help us with sharing the message. I.E. fickle, ubiquitous are not words many folks I know understand. A “mythical path” will be red flags for many in my life. Not to dummy down, but finding common ground/finding common ground. Just my experience with friendz with different and valuable lives
I use Western Medicine but I use other modalities such as Homeopathy and acupuncture that work really well for me. Part of the problem with our medical system is exclusivity of Western Medicine. This is different in other countries that use many modalities and so create more trust from people to the medical establishment and then people like RFK jr. cannot get such a toehold because there are better informed people that can counter their disinformation.
Would add that getting to your doctor to discuss medications is not easy anymore.
As a person in the middle of trying hard to give people the best advice to fight for their families and businesses during COVID, it was so heartbreaking to reach out to amazing public health professionals to find ways to save lives only to see few trusted best practices to save their lives.
What an interesting discussion!
Having watched several hours of RFK Jr's hearing yesterday, I think it's interesting how often he mentioned how much healthier Americans were during his uncle's JFK's (Democratic) presidency – while trying to get a job working for a Republican president.
Cold air around my neck does make me sick. I never understood why my mother wore scraves and now in my late 60s if I don't wear a scarf in the cold I will get a sore throat.
Trump used some of her techniques - how can we sort past the voice and stories- that appear honest
Which techniques, Margaret? Can you share an example?