Alan2005

Yes, but he didn't mean it in that way. Evolution says that any trait that gives you a better chance at producing offspring will eventually 'win'. In nature this may be the fittest, but sometimes it's just down to female preference.

Steve_P

See it in all walks of life.

I'm sad to report my eldest son is one of the non-believers and refuses to get the shot.

Alan2005

True, but that isn't always available to the general public; and even if it was most people wouldn't read it anyway.

dollface

I agree.

dollface

Can be found by Joe Public if he/she were remotely interested. Doesn't exactly make a riviting read unless you're specifically interested in the subject matter - or you're my husband

fledermaus

Even if it was they might not read it properly. Just because something is peer reviewed doesn't make it correct. The whole MMR fiasco stemed from a peer reviewed paper. You have to know how to read the paper, to analyse it and look for any possible errors in the study design, for conflict of interest, etc etc.

Alan2005

I agree completely. And that's why people don't believe experts too. We all know that people will agree with things that match their own perceptions and views; everyone does it. It's very hard to be objective.

fledermaus

We're doomed then.

Novocastrian

There's an interesting article in today's Grauniad which I think you'd enjoy...

http://www.guardian.co.uk/science/20...n-significance

I should add (for self credibility protection) that such criteria are not part of what I do.