Autism's False Prophets

Autism's False Prophets is a book written by Paul Offit, an American pediatrician specializing in infectious diseases and an expert on vaccines, immunology, and virology. The book was first published in 2008 by Columbia University Press and focuses on the controversy surrounding the now discredited link between certain vaccines and the incidence of autism.

Overview

File:Autism's False Prophets.jpg

Cover of Autism's False Prophets

In Autism's False Prophets, Offit critically examines the fear and suspicion towards vaccines that have been fueled by a combination of flawed science, opportunistic lawyers, and media hype. He delves into the history of autism research, the rise of the anti-vaccine movement, and the role of the internet and social media in spreading misinformation.

The book also discusses the Wakefield scandal, named after Andrew Wakefield, a former British doctor who published a fraudulent research paper suggesting a link between the MMR vaccine and autism. Offit explains how Wakefield's study was later retracted and his medical license revoked, but not before his claims had caused widespread panic and a decline in vaccination rates.

Reception

Autism's False Prophets has been praised for its thorough research and clear, accessible writing. Critics have noted that while Offit's stance is unapologetically pro-vaccine, he also shows empathy for parents seeking answers about autism. However, the book has also been criticized by some members of the anti-vaccine movement, who accuse Offit of bias and conflict of interest due to his work in vaccine development.

See also

• Vaccine hesitancy
• Vaccine controversies
• Thiomersal controversy
• Vaccine court

References

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