Are conspiracy theories the greatest threat to global health?
in the series Global Health Lab Discussions
Date: Tuesday 28 February 2012
Time: 5:15 pm
- 6:45 pm
Venue: John Snow, LSHTM, Keppel Street, London, WC1E 7HT, UK
Type of event: Forum
Speaker(s): Mark Featherstone, Keele University, Heidi Larson, LSHTM, David Pencheon, NHS Sustainable Development Unit
Chair(s): Martin McKee, LSHTM, ECOHOST and Richard Horton, T
Some people attribute all sorts of adverse events, from disease outbreaks to political violence, to the covert activities of powerful organizations. These conspiracy theories go hand in hand with the phenomenon of denialism, whereby powerful vested interests do seek to refute, or more often create confusion about the genuine scientific evidence which should be used to inform health policy. Such narratives have been used successfully by industries to protect their profits in the face of evidence that their products cause harm. Therefore, while conspiracy theories may be a natural backlash against the certainties of modernity and falling trust in institutions, they also severely complicate the policy environment for those working in public health. This session draws on both practical and theoretical perspectives to explore the nature of conspiracy theories, the strength of such beliefs and possible policy responses to them.
Admission: Free and open to all with no ticket required. Entry is on a first come, first served basis.
Contact: Vanessa Saliba
Email: GHLab@lshtm.ac.uk
File: Global Health Lab Invitation. Conspiracy Theories. 28 February FINAL.pdf
