I have been a bit slow on this story – I must have missed an important missive! It appears that the British Chiropractic Association, promoters of therapies that are often more harm than good, has sued Simon Singh, science writer and director of the BBC Science department, for his criticism of using chiropractic practices to alleviate childhood illnesses like Asthma.
Chiropractic is a system based on the idea that by manipulating the spine you can adjust some weired, non-existent energy flows that will alleviate 95% of all diseases. Rubbish of course, and there is no scientific proof that any of this works aside from perhaps alleviating back ache.
Use of this type of therapy is especially worrisome when applied to young children, and concern has been expressed publicly by many medical professionals over the years. However, in this case, the BCA decided to sue Simon Singh about his article in the Guardian newspaper. Well, not to put a too fine a point on it. The BCA have one – at least on some slim legal technicalities.
It appears that writers, especially highly respected, knowledgeable writers, are not allowed to critisise people for pedling potions of the back of wagons as it may “defame and libel” them.
However, Simon is appealing the case, as he should do. Please, read his account here and join the campaigns.
(No Ratings Yet)
Loading ...
