Scott Kennedy, documentary filmmaker, discusses the deadly impact of anti-vaxx kingpins like Andrew Wakefield and RFK Jr. His film, 'Shot in the Arm,' exposes their pseudoscientific fear-mongering. The hosts also explore the psychology of cults and crimes, share personal experiences with vaccination, and promote other podcasts.
The increase in measles cases prior to the COVID pandemic, both in America and globally, can be attributed to the influence of anti-vaxxers spreading disinformation.
GiveWell is a nonprofit organization that directs funding to evidence-based organizations in order to save lives and improve the lives of millions.
The rise of anti-vaxxers, especially during the 2019 measles outbreak, emphasizes the need to counter vaccine misinformation and promote public health through scientific efforts.
Deep dives
Measles cases on the rise before COVID
The podcast highlights the increase in measles cases in the year before the COVID pandemic, both in America and globally. It points out that America had the highest number of measles cases in 30 years, attributing this rise to the influence of anti-vaxxers spreading disinformation. The podcast emphasizes the need for countermeasures to combat vaccine misinformation.
GiveWell's impact in global health and poverty alleviation
The podcast discusses GiveWell, a nonprofit organization that helps donors make informed decisions about their charitable contributions. GiveWell uses rigorous research to identify high-impact opportunities in global health and poverty alleviation. It directs funding to evidence-based organizations, making a substantial difference in saving lives and improving the lives of millions. Over 100,000 donors have contributed more than $1 billion through GiveWell, with donations estimated to save over 150,000 lives.
The rise of anti-vaxxers and the fight against vaccine misinformation
The podcast explores the rise of anti-vaxxers, particularly during the 2019 measles outbreak. It discusses the alarming spread of vaccine misinformation and fearmongering by prominent figures such as Andrew Wakefield, Del Bigtree, and RFK Jr. The podcast highlights Scott Kennedy's documentary film, 'Shot in the Arm,' which exposes the deadly impact of these anti-vaxx kingpins. The film also showcases the tireless efforts of scientists, medical workers, and educators in countering vaccine misinformation and promoting public health.
The Influence of Jordan Harbinger's Podcast
Jordan Harbinger's podcast is highly regarded for its diverse range of topics and expert guests. From political science to pseudoscience, Harbinger covers a wide array of subjects that both inform and entertain listeners. His relatable and engaging style makes it a popular choice for expanding one's worldview. The podcast features excellent conversations, a touch of humor, and even provides actionable advice to improve one's life.
The Business of Anti-Vax Movements
The podcast episode delves into the monetization of the anti-vax movement. While some anti-vaxxers may have sincere motivations, it is highlighted that there is a significant financial aspect to the movement. The episode emphasizes how these individuals profit from fear-mongering and sell products and pseudoscientific cures. It also challenges the lack of evidence behind their claims and advocates for greater regulation and accountability, emphasizing that promoting socialized medicine and involvement of government agencies can be more meaningful approaches to improving public health.
Measles was declared eliminated in the US in 2000. Fast forward to 2019 and the nation experienced the largest number of cases since 1992. Globally, there were 207,000 measles deaths that year, a 50% increase since 2016.
The anti-vax boom time was still to come. Andrew Wakefield, Del Bigtree, and RFK Jr. massively increased their exposure and salaries during Covid via pseudoscientific fear-mongering and promiscuous political alliances.
Scott Kennedy’s new documentary, Shot in the Arm, details the deadly impact of these anti-vax kingpins, as well as the tireless counter-efforts of scientists, medical workers, and science educators like Peter Hotez, Paul Offit, Karen Enrst, and Blimi Marcus. Scott joins Derek and Julian to discuss the past and future of the anti-vax movement.
