In this article by Caulifield (2018), the author raises critical question about the use of scientific language and terms in legitimizing products, ideas, and therapies without backing and prove. The article identifies various situations that have used scientific language and purported research to tell the public how some products work. For instance, Caulifield questions recent findings and claims by Gwyneth Paltrow which suggest that water has feelings.
Further, the article asserts that many people are using quantum physics not just to provide an explanation for but also market ridiculous products as well as ideas to the public. The author posits that the reason for this phenomenon is that using quantum physics makes the ideas and products sound darn sciencey or scientific. As such, the author is categorical that that the use of these tactics by nutty celebrity profiteers should be stopped because their assertions and purported research-based findings are not scientific.
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The article notes that marketers of consumer goods are also using the sciencey language to market cosmetic and beauty products with the aim of showing the users that such products are scientifically proven and good for their use. The article supports these assertions by noting that the use of scientific language is not new as many have used it to make sales as early as in the 1800s when magnesium and electricity had more media coverage for their perceived health benefits.
The use of scientific language for dubious and unproven theories and practices works. Imperatively, the article implores on stakeholders to deal with the issue by playing their role. For instance, regulatory agencies like the Federal Trade Commission should up their efforts in dealing with predatory journals while the scientific community should debunk these findings through offering effective reasoned and compelling counterarguments in different forums like lectures, mainstream and social media and through research findings. At a personal level, one needs to be scientifically literate through critical thinking from an early age.
Reference
Caulifeld, T. (2018). In 2018 we need less nonsense and more science.
