Committee for Skeptical Inquiry

In this age of high technology it is important that the public be well informed, this requires reason, critical thinking and a good background in science and medicine. Unfortunately, the mass media often uses its power in the cause of the irrational. This is well illustrated by the recent Oprah show which was entirely devoted to medical intuitive Caroline Myss.

Myss was presented as having paranormal abilities and "visionary powers" but the show did not provide scientific, critical balance. Why was there no skeptic to show the other side.? Why were there no legitimate medical personnel to counter her arguments? Why was it not shown that Myss' work was not subject to scientific scrutiny? Was there an experimental and control group? Were accurate statistical methods used? Was there peer review? Could her experiments be duplicated by other people?

Oprah is one of the most influential persons in America. As such she has a responsibility to the public. By presenting the irrational as fact she does a great disservice to the public. And, when the irrational is in the field of medicine, she can do great harm by encouraging people to consult quacks and shunning legitimate medicine.

Related Information

Books:
- Why People Don't Heal and How They Can
- Anatomy of the Spirit
Homepage of Caroline Myss
On the frontier of healing, how far out is too far?
From Current, the newspaper about public broadcasting.
Search CSICOP:
- Caroline Myss
- alternative medicine

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