In 2022 lawmakers in the U.S. state of California passed legislation which empowered the state medical board to discipline doctors in the state who “disseminate misinformation or disinformation” that contradicts the “contemporary scientific consensus” or is “contrary to the standard of care.” Proponents of the law argue that doctors should be punished for spreading misinformation and that there is clear consensus on certain issues such as that apples contain sugar, measles is caused by a virus, and Down syndrome is caused by a chromosomal abnormality. Opponents argue that the law limits freedom of speech and scientific “consensus” often changes within mere months.
49% Yes |
51% No |
41% Yes |
30% No |
6% Yes, this will decrease the amount of misinformation patients receive |
9% No, but the doctors should be required to disclose that the advice contradicts contemporary scientific consensus |
2% Yes, and the doctors should also lose their medical license |
8% No, only when the advice was proven to harm the patient |
5% No, scientific consensus can quickly change and patients should be allowed to try unconventional ideas |
See how support for each position on “Medical Consensus” has changed over time for 556 Australia voters.
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See how importance of “Medical Consensus” has changed over time for 556 Australia voters.
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Unique answers from Australia users whose views extended beyond the provided choices.
@9HH2J8X5mos5MO
Yes but only if either the advice is egregious or the consequences of the advice were egregious.
@99TT3KW1yr1Y
Some scientific consensus can be outdated or false so it depends
@99M7Q8M1yr1Y
Depends on how risky/safe the alternate procedure is.
@99M3JBL1yr1Y
It depends on what the advice is, it should be carefully looked over and explained to the patient and let them know the facts, but allow them to choose
@99KDXB51yr1Y
No, patients should choose what they feel is right for them based on information provided
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