Merchants of Doubt Book Summary

In 'Merchants of Doubt', Naomi Oreskes and Erik M. Conway unravel a web of deception spun by influential scientists who distorted the truth about various scientific issues, from tobacco smoke to climate change. This compelling narrative reveals how these figures leveraged their credibility to cast doubt on overwhelming evidence, hindering public understanding and policy action. The authors delve into the psychological and historical factors that enabled this manipulation of science for personal and political gain. With meticulous research and captivating storytelling, they confront the consequences of skepticism misused. Uncover the hidden battle between truth and doubt in a world where information is often weaponized.

By Naomi Oreskes, Erik M. Conway

Published: 2011

"The deliberate misuse of scientific information has the power not only to distort public understanding, but also to shape policies that affect our environment and our health."

Book Review of Merchants of Doubt

Documents the troubling influence of a small group of scientists who the author contends misrepresent scientific facts to advance key political and economic agendas, revealing the interests behind their detractions on findings about acid rain, DDT, and other hazards.

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The deliberate misuse of scientific information has the power not only to distort public understanding, but also to shape policies that affect our environment and our health.

Merchants of Doubt

By Naomi Oreskes, Erik M. Conway