Friday, April 16, 2010

Ted Talk on Importance of Science



This Ted talk is brilliant!

My favourite part is at 10:25, when Specter discusses how those attracted to "alternative medicine" are always suspicious of "big pharma", and thus they leap into the arms of "big placebo".

I also like his comment towards the end about "high-tech colonialism".

Here is a test I want you to try next week.

Firstly, I want you to only drink tap water (proviso: assuming you live in a country with safe drinking water, as we do in Canada). No bottled water, no "brita filtered" water, just plain old (fresh, cold and cheap) tap water.

Secondly, when you go to the grocery store don't buy anything that labels itself as "organic". Deliberately avoid the organic section. Empower yourself to make consumption choices based on science, not unfounded fear and superstition. This can be an empowering act.

After one week what will happen? Well, you'll be (at least) as healthy (see this and this) as you would otherwise be, but you will also a little richer.

You might also even be a bit happier and healthier. Worrying too much can be bad for your health. There are enough things to worry about in life already without needlessly inventing new things to worry about.

Cheers,
Colin