The Tim & April Show
17. Eugenics? RFK Jr, Autism Registries, and Anti-Vax Beliefs
May 19, 2025
Jessica Malati Rivera, an infectious disease epidemiologist and science communicator, discusses the historical roots of science denialism, focusing on RFK Jr.'s controversial views on vaccines and autism. She highlights the dehumanization of autism in public discourse and stresses the importance of accurate science communication. The conversation also critiques the wellness industry's influence on health perceptions and the ethical concerns surrounding autism registries. Jessica advocates for compassionate public health measures and urges a deeper understanding of autism as a complex spectrum.
01:19:40
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- Jessica Malati Rivera discusses the historical roots of science denialism, linking it to anti-vaccine sentiments and societal fears around public health.
- The podcast emphasizes the dehumanization of autism when viewed as a disease rather than a spectrum, highlighting the stigma surrounding individuals on the spectrum.
Deep dives
Understanding the Current Climate of Science Denialism
The conversation addresses how science denialism has been a persistent issue, particularly in the United States, for several decades. The speaker emphasizes that this denialism is not new and can be traced back historically to movements against germ theory. It is noted that such anti-science sentiments are often intertwined with racist ideologies, particularly in the context of health and wellness narratives. This historical backdrop sets the stage for the current resurgence of skepticism towards vaccinations, as well as the broader implications it has on public health initiatives.
