> So I'd argue that the bigger problem is people reading oversimplified reports of scientific information.
And what about the AHA[1] and other policy makers and shapers? What leads them to make recommendations based on weakly established conclusions?
I think the pressure to deliver, and the lack of generalist knowledge are somehow involved here. In the case of food and drugs, I would also blame elitism.
I know nothing of the AHA's methods or qualifications, but in my view bad policies purportedly based upon science usually come from lack of these, in addition to lack of scientific literacy.
Alternatively, from a predefined goal, i.e. a political agenda.
I'm curious: in what way would you blame elitism in those cases?
And what about the AHA[1] and other policy makers and shapers? What leads them to make recommendations based on weakly established conclusions?
I think the pressure to deliver, and the lack of generalist knowledge are somehow involved here. In the case of food and drugs, I would also blame elitism.
[1] http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/GettingHealthy/NutritionCenter...