Cautionary Tales with Tim Harford
Dr. Brinkley's Miracle Cure For Impotence (with Betwixt The Sheets)
Feb 7, 2025
In this captivating discussion, Kate Lister, host of "Betwixt the Sheets," dives into the bizarre world of Dr. John Brinkley, who claimed goat testicles were the cure for impotence. Lister explores how Brinkley exploited radio marketing to become a notorious figure in the 1920s, drawing parallels with today's social media influencers. The conversation also highlights the ethical battles against medical quackery and the eccentric lengths Brinkley went to maintain his fame, leading to his ultimate downfall.
38:25
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Quick takeaways
- Dr. John Brinkley's rise to infamy exemplifies how charisma and sensational marketing can exploit public trust in medicine.
- The eventual exposure of Brinkley's fraudulent practices highlights the crucial need for regulatory oversight and evidence-based medical standards.
Deep dives
The Rise of Dr. Brinkley
Dr. John Romulus Brinkley gained notoriety in Milford, Kansas, after claiming to cure male impotence through goat gland transplantation. His unconventional treatments quickly drew attention, leading desperate patients to pay for surgeries where goats' testicles were implanted into men. Brinkley's self-promotion and claims of success leveraged sensational stories, such as the birth of the 'first goat gland baby.' This, together with his charisma, attracted patients from across the country, resulting in a booming, albeit questionable, medical practice.
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