The world is rejecting science and truth, here are 5 ways to fight back
6 hours ago
- #Evidence-Based Medicine
- #Critical Thinking
- #Science Skepticism
- In 1992, a group of doctors proposed 'evidence-based medicine' in JAMA, advocating for reliance on scientific evidence over intuition, despite initial backlash.
- Today, there is a perceived rejection of science, with examples like climate change denial and vaccine skepticism, but a counter-narrative highlights the integration of evidence into fields like education and anti-poverty programs.
- The history of evidence-based medicine shows it became a norm by 2014, viewed as a major intellectual achievement, suggesting current skepticism is part of setbacks in adopting evidence-guided decisions.
- Evidence increasingly informs education, with over half of English schools participating in studies to test effective techniques, and anti-poverty programs tested like drugs, impacting millions.
- The future of evidence looks promising with investments in AI systems to synthesize science globally, and individuals can combat unreason by demanding evidence, checking peer-reviewed studies, and using AI search tools.
- Governments should promote critical thinking in schools to combat misinformation, while humility about science's complexities and storytelling can help communicate evidence effectively.