Doubt Is Their Product

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Doubt is Their Product

Doubt Is Their Product is a book that explores the strategies employed by corporations to undermine scientific evidence harmful to their products or practices. Authored by David Michaels, an epidemiologist and former United States Assistant Secretary of Energy for Environment, Safety, and Health, the title of the book is inspired by a memo from a tobacco company executive suggesting that doubt is their product since it is the best means of competing with the "body of fact" that exists in the minds of the general public. The book delves into the broader implications of this strategy, showing how it has been adopted by various industries to dispute scientific findings related to health risks, environmental damage, and regulatory requirements.

Overview

Doubt Is Their Product details how corporations have developed a systematic approach to discredit scientific research that could potentially lead to regulation or impact their profits negatively. Michaels illustrates this through numerous examples across different industries, including tobacco, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and fossil fuels. The book highlights the use of "manufactured uncertainty" as a tool to challenge the validity of scientific studies, delay regulatory action, and influence public opinion.

Themes

The main themes of Doubt Is Their Product include the manipulation of science, the role of regulatory agencies, and the impact of corporate influence on public health and safety. Michaels argues that by generating uncertainty about the science, corporations can effectively forestall government intervention and regulation. This tactic not only puts public health at risk but also undermines the scientific process.

Impact

Since its publication, Doubt Is Their Product has been influential in shedding light on the tactics used by corporations to sway scientific discourse and regulatory policies. It has sparked discussions on the need for stronger protections against such practices and the importance of maintaining the integrity of scientific research in the face of corporate interests.

Reception

The book has received widespread acclaim for its thorough research and insightful analysis. Critics have praised Michaels for his ability to make complex scientific and regulatory issues accessible to a broad audience. It has been recommended as essential reading for policymakers, researchers, and anyone interested in the intersection of science, industry, and government.

See Also

• Science and technology studies
• Regulatory science
• Public health
• Environmental health
• Occupational safety and health

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