celebrities and science - the verdict

[psychodiva]

interesting littlke article here

Mr Obama and John McCain blundered into the MMR vaccine row during their presidential campaigns. "We've seen just a skyrocketing autism rate," said President-elect Obama. "Some people are suspicious that it's connected to the vaccines. This person included. The science right now is inconclusive, but we have to research it," he said.
His words were echoed by Mr McCain. "It's indisputable that [autism] is on the rise among children, the question is what's causing it," he said. "There's strong evidence that indicates it's got to do with a preservative in the vaccines."

[dogpet]

I'm gonna do a little experiment diva, I'm gonna comment before clicking link to see how ignorant I am.

Increase caused by more awareness so more diagnosis, combined with older men becoming fathers more often.

No conection with MMR.

Here goes: Heh! not bad eh?

[Choobus]

I am going to guess "increase" caused by better detection

[Smellyoldgit]

Perhaps our "celebs" (whatever that's meant to cover) should all read this leaflet before they open their stoopid mouths.

[Professor Chaos]

[psychodiva]

I like them statistics Prof

[psychodiva]

Smellyoldgit wrote

Perhaps our "celebs" (whatever that's meant to cover) should all read this leaflet before they open their stoopid mouths.

brilliant site- I know a few people to send the link to

I read somewhere that part of the increase in cases was also due to there being more conditions being classified under Autistic Spectrum Disorder.

I believe there has also been a change in attitudes. Having a 'retard' in the family used to carry a certain stigma whereas, more recently, even mild or borderline behavioural disorders are more likely to be recognized due to changing attitudes and availability of special programs/assistance.

In Canada streaming was almost completely eliminated and kids who used to be lumped together in "special class" are integrated into regular classes with EAs where required (in theory).

I'm a little loathe to admit it,but I actually watched Dr Phil for a while. BUT,he once said something which really sunk in:

About Little Tommy Cruise and his criticism of Brookes Shields for taking antidepressants:

Dr Phil said ; "Why should I care about what some actor says"

The penny dropped.

Since then I will happily listen to an actor talking about acting. (but not its latest offering) I pay no attention to celebrity endorsements or political opinions or their views on any other subject,unless I'm convinced they have some expertise.


I'm not sure I fully understand the cult of celebrity. I can only conclude it reflects the unreflective and shallow lives of the worshipers.