Bad Science: Quacks, Hacks, and Big Pharma Flacks

First off, be aware that the humor in this book is VERY British. I didn't know that going in, but was pleasantly surprised. The narrarator is SPOT ON with the read. It's witty, yet scientific, and filled with interesting facts. Rather bravely, the author (Goldacre) admits numerous times when he's getting too bogged down in boring/heavy stuff, and apologizes. This is done in a way that's charming and hillarious. Entertaining all the way through. If you've ever wondered about the reality of Homeopathic remedies, natural healing, witch doctors, etc, then you will LOVE this book!

Goldacre really gives you pause for thought in regards to medicine and nutrition. He has no qualms about calling a quack a quack, and really makes you wonder about all the studies that have been done concerning supplements, diets, and general medical information.

I will listen again, just because there was so much in it that I can't remember every detail all at once. FABULOUS information and take!

I loved this book! Of course, the fact that the author agreed with me on the pseudoscience of many alternative medicine certainly didn't hurt, but it was more than that. He came and things as a nonbeliever in everything, whether it be alternative medicine or science, whether it be medicine or placebo. Furthermore, he was able to say that “yes, some things that are not scientifically proved actually have proved helpful, MORE than doing nothing”. He did his best to explain what could be going on, and he did his best to allow for individuals' belief systems. In some cases, he said that he doesn't agree with you, but he respects your choice. I personally, furthermore, learned things about what I, personally, need to look for. It was a great book!

It's important to be informed that the "Detox Foot Baths" and Pads, and Ear Candles, Homeopathy and many other things in the Alternative Medicine industry are scams, but it's even better to learn *how* they are scamming people.

Maybe you wouldn't have fallen for these things yourself anyway, but this book can help you explain to others who may be more inclined to try them exactly what they do and why they don't work.

I already knew that most of these were useless or even intentional scams, but I didn't know the details of all of them, and despite having a previous interest in the subject, some of these quacks and hacks were new to me.

I found it very enjoyable to listen to, and would recommend it to anyone interested in the subject matter - as long as they're okay with a British perspective and narrator. It's always a good idea to listen to a sample before buying just in case!

eye opening how irresponsible the media is when publishing a story

yes. andrew wakefield should be held accountable for the damage he has caused.
the rest of the mail order quacks should be publicly ridiculed for their nonsense. I'm talking about you Chopra

No. The topic is so fascinating, the narration just makes this so unenjoyable.

If anyone else would have narrated. That's how it could be better.