The Atlantic Out Loud The Most Powerful Man in Science
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Nov 25, 2025 Discover how an often-overlooked figure in public health rose to prominence, shaped by family trauma and a polarizing worldview. Delve into his controversial shift from environmentalism to a MAGA alignment, and witness the evolution of his stances on vaccination amid ongoing debates. Experts weigh in, challenging his claims while exploring his past experiences with addiction and recovery. The podcast tackles the complexities of modern science, media relations, and the repercussions of his public stances on health policy.
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Early Trauma And Composed Public Persona
- Robert F. Kennedy Jr. learned early that fate can lead people to terrible places and framed life as a battleground between good and evil.
- He reacted calmly to threats and trauma, continuing routines like drinking plain organic grass‑fed yogurt on flights.
Public Health's Long Win—and New Chronic Crisis
- Century‑scale public‑health advances (vaccines, antibiotics, sanitation) massively cut infectious deaths and extended life expectancy.
- Since ~2010 life expectancy gains stalled as chronic diseases overtook infectious threats and now dominate health spending.
Science Framed As Systemically Compromised
- Kennedy frames modern science as biased by industry capture, regulatory capture, and profit‑driven journals.
- He uses that narrative to justify radical changes to public‑health institutions and policy priorities.
