440: David Michaels | Dark Money and the Science of Deception

Tobacco & Teflon

The historical cases of the tobacco industry and Teflon highlight how companies have manipulated scientific evidence to protect their interests. David Michaels explains that corporations often hire scientists to create doubt about the dangers of their products, as seen with DuPont and 3M's handling of Teflon chemicals 1. This tactic, known as manufacturing uncertainty, has been used effectively by industries to delay regulation and litigation. Michaels notes, "It's hard to convince a man of something when his salary depends on him not believing it," emphasizing the role of cognitive bias in these deceptions 1.

   

NFL Tactics

The NFL's approach to concussion research mirrors the tobacco industry's denial strategies. David Michaels discusses how the NFL initially dismissed Dr. Bennet Omalu's findings on chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) in players, only acknowledging the issue after overwhelming evidence emerged 2. This tactic is part of a broader pattern where industries hire scientists to create doubt and delay action. Michaels states, "There are two sides to every story, but there are not necessarily two valid sides to every story," highlighting the manipulation of scientific narratives 3.

   

Food Industry

The food industry often uses flawed studies to promote health benefits and influence public perception. David Michaels explains that companies hire product defense firms to produce favorable research, similar to hiring a defense attorney 4. This practice leads to a proliferation of misleading health claims, such as those about pomegranate juice's supposed benefits. Michaels emphasizes the need for independent science to ensure accurate evaluations, stating, "We need to have independent science to make these evaluations" 4.

   

Auto Scandals

The automotive industry, particularly Volkswagen, has also been involved in manipulating data to protect its interests. David Michaels recounts Volkswagen's use of defeat devices in diesel engines to pass emissions tests, a scandal that revealed the lengths companies will go to deceive 5. Additionally, Volkswagen attempted to conduct a study using monkeys to prove diesel exhaust safety, which backfired when the results showed the opposite effect 6. Michaels highlights the importance of integrity in scientific research, noting that most scientists strive to understand the world and make it better 5.