TED Talks Daily Why we need to fight misinformation about vaccines | Ethan Lindenberger
Jun 25, 2019
Ethan Lindenberger, an outspoken activist once unvaccinated, became a viral figure after asking how to get vaccinated on Reddit. He shares his remarkable journey from misinformation to advocacy, including his testimony before a US Senate committee. Lindenberger emphasizes the importance of personal stories in combating vaccine myths, advocating that authentic narratives can foster trust far more than statistics alone. He encourages listeners to engage in the fight against misinformation, highlighting the vital role communities play in advancing accurate vaccine education.
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Reddit Post Goes Viral
- Ethan Lindenberger, a high school senior from Norwalk, Ohio, posted on Reddit asking where to get vaccinated.
- This post went viral, sparking a public debate about vaccination and leading to his testimony before the US Senate.
Misinformation vs. Malice
- Media coverage often focused on the conflict between Lindenberger and his mother, portraying him as attacking her.
- However, he emphasizes that his mother was misinformed, not malicious, and he maintained respect for her.
Unexpected Advocate
- Lindenberger's decision to get vaccinated caused conflict with his mother, who believed it was dangerous.
- Despite his lack of expertise, he found himself thrust into public discussions about vaccines.