In 'Merchants of Doubt', Naomi Oreskes and Erik M. Conway unravel a web of deception spun by influential scientists who distorted the truth about various scientific issues, from tobacco smoke to climate change. This compelling narrative reveals how these figures leveraged their credibility to cast doubt on overwhelming evidence, hindering public understanding and policy action. The authors delve into the psychological and historical factors that enabled this manipulation of science for personal and political gain. With meticulous research and captivating storytelling, they confront the consequences of skepticism misused. Uncover the hidden battle between truth and doubt in a world where information is often weaponized.
By Naomi Oreskes, Erik M. Conway
Published: 2011
"The deliberate misuse of scientific information has the power not only to distort public understanding, but also to shape policies that affect our environment and our health."
Documents the troubling influence of a small group of scientists who the author contends misrepresent scientific facts to advance key political and economic agendas, revealing the interests behind their detractions on findings about acid rain, DDT, and other hazards.
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“The deliberate misuse of scientific information has the power not only to distort public understanding, but also to shape policies that affect our environment and our health.”
Merchants of Doubt
By Naomi Oreskes, Erik M. Conway
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Naomi Oreskes is a distinguished historian of science and an outspoken advocate for climate action. She is a Professor of the History of Science at Harvard University and has published extensively on the history of Earth and environmental sciences, as well as the social implications of scientific research. Oreskes is best known for her influential works, including 'Merchants of Doubt: How a Handful of Scientists Obscured the Truth on Issues from Tobacco Smoke to Global Warming,' co-authored with Erik M. Conway, which examines how misinformation campaigns have distorted public perception of scientific consensus. Her writing style is characterized by rigorous scholarship combined with accessible prose, making complex scientific topics understandable to a general audience. Oreskes has played a significant role in elevating the discourse on climate change, emphasizing the ethical responsibility of scientists and policymakers in defending the truth.
Erik M. Conway is an esteemed American author and historian known for his compelling narratives that blend scientific inquiry with historical analysis. He is particularly recognized for his works such as "Atmospheric Science at NASA: A History" and "The Collapse of Western Civilization: A View from the Future," co-authored with Naomi Oreskes. Conway's writing style is characterized by its clarity, depth, and engaging prose, making complex subjects accessible to a broad audience. With a background in both environmental science and history, he expertly weaves together threads of science, politics, and culture to illuminate the pressing issues of our time.
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