"Bad Science" to me is the lack of inquiry. Throughout the entire book, every concept explored had poor data collection, they weren't trying to learn new things, and they regurgitated the same information over an over. There were never any questions raised and there was no deeper connection than the want of money or fame through these "scientifically proven" ideas and items. It is important to teach to students misconceptions and also how to look critically at others' works. They should not just take everything as is - it should be questioned and explored.
In class, I have been assigned to read the novel Bad Science by Ben Goldarce. It is a mildly amusing read because the author is beyond sassy, but it also makes a great point. Overall, I think that Mr. Goldacre argues throughout his book that mainstream media and lack of questioning has lead to "bad science".
"Bad Science" to me is the lack of inquiry. Throughout the entire book, every concept explored had poor data collection, they weren't trying to learn new things, and they regurgitated the same information over an over. There were never any questions raised and there was no deeper connection than the want of money or fame through these "scientifically proven" ideas and items. It is important to teach to students misconceptions and also how to look critically at others' works. They should not just take everything as is - it should be questioned and explored.
3 Comments
Melissa
10/14/2014 02:49:57 am
I agree-these alternative therapists [typically] are selling quack remedies. As we know from our presentation, sometimes this can go too far. Something major to teach in our future classrooms is to question everything, and not take everything at "face value".
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Ashley Baldwin
10/14/2014 03:18:18 am
I agree. When I was reading it I was thinking why are people not questioning the way all of these things work? I began to realize more and more how much the media influences people and how people think that for something to be on television it has to be somewhat credible. Unfortunately there are ways to put whatever crap you want to on the television.
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drann
10/25/2014 02:24:07 am
A wonderful commentary on this book. I agree- it shows the lack of inquiry and skepticism in our society at large. Goldacre also shows how powerful our job as science educators are…we must help our students be better consumers of information from ALL sources…
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The name is Ms. B - I enjoy nerdy chemistry jokes, discussing the possibility of aliens, teaching, and cats. Archives
April 2015
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