Ooh. I just posted this on another thread (on David Icke). Sorry I missed this thread because it seems to be spot on.
I'm reposting here. (Is that allowed? Apologies if not - I'm new here!) Thank you to those questioning how this podcast is going. I'm supportive. And, by the way, yes, some conspiracies are real, although not necessarily conscious. One I'd highlight is the oil companies denial of global warming throughout the 80s, 90s, and 00s, despite the fact they (in particular Exxon) absolutely knew it was real.
I’ve only just come across Skeptiko and was really enjoying some of the earlier episodes with people like Dean Radin, Rupert Sheldrake and ‘sceptics’ such as James Alcock and Stephen Novella. These interviews were really informative, insightful and constructive.
So I thought I’d look at more recent episodes and came across the one on David Icke. Where did the emphasis on peer-reviewed science and critical thinking go?! That’s the strength of parapsychology. However, well-evidenced science certainly isn’t Icke’s strong point as he seems to grab onto whatever theory might support his global conspiracy schtick even if it’s only one or two lone doctors on YouTube. As I write, the health service in the UK is at breaking point because of COVID-19. I know people who’ve been seriously ill with COVID-19, and I have relatives who work in the NHS, and this first-hand knowledge (as well as an ability for critical thinking) makes me certain that this is not made up.
I’m not in favour of banning anyone, but you don’t have to give Icke and similar airtime, particularly with such a fawning attitude and lack of critical questioning. Many of his views are harmless (some I’d even support) but when we’re dealing with a global health crisis (and indeed global warming) they are downright dangerous.
What especially concerns me is people saying in this thread that they’re not wearing masks or practising social distancing because of theories such as these. You’re welcome to hold different views (hey and don’t take the vaccine if you don’t want to), but, out of compassion, kindness, respect for those who hold differing views, and the precautionary principle, if nothing else, please help to protect others’ health by following the guidelines. Thanks for listening! Love and peace.
I'm reposting here. (Is that allowed? Apologies if not - I'm new here!) Thank you to those questioning how this podcast is going. I'm supportive. And, by the way, yes, some conspiracies are real, although not necessarily conscious. One I'd highlight is the oil companies denial of global warming throughout the 80s, 90s, and 00s, despite the fact they (in particular Exxon) absolutely knew it was real.
I’ve only just come across Skeptiko and was really enjoying some of the earlier episodes with people like Dean Radin, Rupert Sheldrake and ‘sceptics’ such as James Alcock and Stephen Novella. These interviews were really informative, insightful and constructive.
So I thought I’d look at more recent episodes and came across the one on David Icke. Where did the emphasis on peer-reviewed science and critical thinking go?! That’s the strength of parapsychology. However, well-evidenced science certainly isn’t Icke’s strong point as he seems to grab onto whatever theory might support his global conspiracy schtick even if it’s only one or two lone doctors on YouTube. As I write, the health service in the UK is at breaking point because of COVID-19. I know people who’ve been seriously ill with COVID-19, and I have relatives who work in the NHS, and this first-hand knowledge (as well as an ability for critical thinking) makes me certain that this is not made up.
I’m not in favour of banning anyone, but you don’t have to give Icke and similar airtime, particularly with such a fawning attitude and lack of critical questioning. Many of his views are harmless (some I’d even support) but when we’re dealing with a global health crisis (and indeed global warming) they are downright dangerous.
What especially concerns me is people saying in this thread that they’re not wearing masks or practising social distancing because of theories such as these. You’re welcome to hold different views (hey and don’t take the vaccine if you don’t want to), but, out of compassion, kindness, respect for those who hold differing views, and the precautionary principle, if nothing else, please help to protect others’ health by following the guidelines. Thanks for listening! Love and peace.