Far-Right Anti-Science Conspiracies Are Literally Killing Us
Sep 19, 2023
auto_awesome
Dr. Peter Hotez, author of “The Deadly Rise of Anti-Science,” discusses the dangers of anti-vaccine conspiracies. Labor reporter and author Kim Kelly talks about the United Auto Workers strike. The podcast delves into the threat of far-right anti-science conspiracies and the rise of worker activism demanding fair treatment.
Anti-vaccine conspiracies embraced by political extremists have led to unnecessary deaths of thousands of Americans.
Younger generation workers are demanding better conditions, marking a significant moment in the labor movement.
An aggressive rise in anti-science threatens public health and undermines trust in scientific expertise, requiring protection and resources for scientists.
Deep dives
The Rise of Anti-Science: A Threat to National Security
In his book 'The Deadly Rise of Anti-Science,' Dr. Peter Hotez explores the dangerous social force of anti-science and its impact on the nation's security. He defines anti-science as the rejection of mainstream scientific views and methods, often replaced with unproven or misleading theories for political gains. Dr. Hotez highlights how the anti-vaccine movement, now embraced by political extremists, has led to the unnecessary deaths of thousands of Americans. He emphasizes the need to uncouple anti-science sentiments and address the consequences of this movement.
Workers' Power and the Shift in Labor Movements
There is an invigorated moment in labor history where workers, particularly the younger generation, are asserting their rights and demanding better conditions. Strikes, such as the writers' strike and the ongoing united auto workers' strike, have gained widespread attention and support. The younger generation, influenced by experiences of economic instability and witnessing their parents' struggles, are not willing to accept the status quo of exploitation and mistreatment by corporate leaders. The shift in worker power and the refusal to accept unjust conditions mark a significant moment in the labor movement.
CEO's Views on Workers and the Resistance
Recent comments by Australian CEO Tim Gurner, suggesting that workers should feel pain and experience high unemployment rates to remind them of who is in charge, exposed the true beliefs of many corporate leaders. Gurner's remarks, although he later apologized, echoed the sentiments of billionaire CEOs who see workers as replaceable and devalue their contributions. However, these comments have only fueled the resistance of workers and their determination to fight for fair treatment. The strikes and movements led by workers, particularly younger generations, indicate a growing understanding of their worth and refusal to accept mistreatment from those at the top.
The Danger of Anti-Science Aggression
There is a disturbing rise in anti-science aggression that is expanding globally, affecting not only the science itself but also the scientists. This organized movement, deeply entrenched in far-right politics, poses a serious threat to public health and undermines trust in scientific expertise. The tactics used include targeting prominent scientists, portraying them as public enemies, and subjecting them to humiliation and harassment. This aggressive stance against science is not only detrimental to the progress of scientific knowledge but also to the well-being of society.
The Urgent Need to Protect Scientists and Counter Misinformation
To stem the tide of anti-science, it is crucial to protect scientists and provide them with support and resources. Many scientists face online attacks, hate mail, and even death threats for speaking out or conducting their research. Scientific societies, institutions, and academic health centers must provide backing to scientists and create a culture that encourages and supports scientists' engagement in public discourse. Additionally, a comprehensive response to anti-science aggression requires a political solution. By involving agencies such as Homeland Security, Commerce Department, and Justice Department, we can tap into expertise in countering dangerous societal forces to develop effective strategies against the growing menace of anti-science sentiments.
Dr. Peter Hotez joins The New Abnormal this week to discuss his new book, “The Deadly Rise of Anti-Science”—and why anti-vaccine conspiracies are so dangerous. Plus! An interview with labor reporter and author Kim Kelly about the United Auto Workers strike.
