Conspirituality Bonus Sample: How Does Andrew Wakefield Keep Getting Resurrected?
5 snips
Dec 1, 2025 The resurgence of Andrew Wakefield is dissected with a focus on his discredited study linking vaccines to autism. The episode highlights how misleading claims by figures like Wakefield and RFK Jr. can manipulate public perception. Attention is drawn to the CDC's recent website changes that have reignited vaccine misinformation. Political narratives, such as Senator Ron Johnson's call for an apology to Wakefield, are critiqued. The dangers posed by the revival of these discredited individuals are underscored, along with a plan to revisit their harmful manipulations.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Wakefield's 'Persecuted Scientist' Narrative
- Andrew Wakefield frames himself as a persecuted truth-seeker who only asked whether vaccines cause autism.
- Derek Barris counters that Wakefield's narrative ignores malpractice and manipulation in his research record.
Retracted Research Keeps Fueling Movements
- Derek highlights how Wakefield's retracted study still fuels anti-vax movements decades later.
- He shows that institutional changes (like CDC messaging) can revive discredited figures' influence.
Political Praise Despite Professional Bans
- Derek recounts Senator Ron Johnson tweeting that Wakefield deserves an apology after CDC website changes.
- He contrasts political praise with Wakefield's real professional bans and misconduct facts.