

440: David Michaels | Dark Money and the Science of Deception
Dec 1, 2020
David Michaels, an esteemed epidemiologist and former OSHA head, dives into the murky waters of corporate deception in science. He reveals how bad science can thrive, often benefiting corporations at the public's expense. The podcast highlights the troubling intersection of dark money and health research, shedding light on the manipulation of data in industries like tobacco and chemicals. Michaels also discusses the urgent need for robust regulations and critical awareness to counteract these influences on our health and trust in science.
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OSHA's Impact
- OSHA has significantly improved workplace safety in the last 50 years.
- Deaths decreased from 37 to 14 daily, despite a doubled workforce.
Bad Science vs. PR
- "Bad science" misleads by distorting data, creating uncertainty.
- This goes beyond simple PR and can have severe consequences.
Tobacco Playbook
- The tobacco industry successfully used "manufactured uncertainty" to delay regulation for decades.
- Similar tactics are now used by other industries, like chemical companies.