All posts by Steven Novella

Founder and currently Executive Editor of Science-Based Medicine Steven Novella, MD is an academic clinical neurologist at the Yale University School of Medicine. He is also the host and producer of the popular weekly science podcast, The Skeptics’ Guide to the Universe, and the author of the NeuroLogicaBlog, a daily blog that covers news and issues in neuroscience, but also general science, scientific skepticism, philosophy of science, critical thinking, and the intersection of science with the media and society. Dr. Novella also has produced two courses with The Great Courses, and published a book on critical thinking - also called The Skeptics Guide to the Universe.

Chinese Researcher Reports First Gene-Edited Babies

A Chinese scientist announces first gene-edited babies, setting off a discussion of the science and ethics of using CRISPR on humans.

/ November 28, 2018

The Revenge of Chicken Pox

Another outbreak, this time chickenpox, can be blamed on antivaxxers.

/ November 21, 2018

Why People Deny Science

A new study further shows that people are inconsistent in how they justify their beliefs.

/ November 14, 2018

Update on Low Calorie Sweeteners

An updated review of the science finds that artificial sweeteners are still a safe and effective option for weight management.

/ November 7, 2018

Alkaline Water Surges Despite Lack of Evidence

Alkaline water is pure BS – there is no plausibility to the claims of any health benefits, and what evidence we have is negative. Its popularity grows despite this.

/ October 31, 2018

Air Dryers vs Paper Towels

Which hand drying method is the best, air or paper towel? The answer is more complicated than you might think – but do wash your hands.

/ October 24, 2018

World Health Organization Endorses Quackery

The World Health Organization fails its primary function by promoting traditional quackery.

/ October 3, 2018

A Nuanced View on Breast vs Formula

While there is strong evidence that breast is best, a new study suggests that the benefits have been overstated, and may be mostly due to non-specific factors such as better education and overall health care.

/ September 26, 2018

The Pseudoscience of Kelly Brogan

Kelly Brogan sells an impressive array of pseudoscience wrapped in the standard alternative tropes.

/ September 19, 2018

A Culture of Standards Matters

Perhaps the most dangerous effect of the alternative medicine movement has been an erosion of the culture of dedication to science and standards within medicine. This has to change.

/ September 12, 2018