Which one of these two men would you be most likely to place your trust in, if they were offering advice?
Each was an "expert" in their field, but one of them gave advice that was incorrect, and cost large numbers of lives.
In fact the advice he gave was merely an opinion - and was questioned by the other man - who was eventually proved right.
It is important that we get this right - our lives are governed by expert advice as to what is best for us.
Should we have the MMR vaccine? Should we vaccinate against foot and mouth? How should we best adapt our diets?
One week a moderate amount of alcohol is good for us - then along comes advice that even small amounts of alcohol can be harmful!
So WHO decides who is an expert, and who is merely talking up his own agenda?
The climate change debate must surely be the most contentious area, where experts compete to give their view of what is the truth - but after reading so much, you quickly become disillusioned in ANY advice that does not meet your previously held conceptions!
I lean towards trusting those people with the most experience. I once advised that policemen with lower collar numbers were generally better than those whose digits stretched to four numbers!
Sorry any lurking BiB!
That of course is a sweeping generalisation - and thwarted by those with lower numbers retiring!
But you can see the point I am making, that experience - or the school of hard knocks - is a good breeding ground for expertise.
I am heartened to read that others are sharing my concerns, and questioning how we assess who we seek advice from.
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-16110088So my advice to you? Check out both sides of the coin, and trust to your judgement - but be prepared to change your viewpoint when new evidence comes along.
Be aware of vested interest from those whose careers depend on the advice that they give, and who choose to ignore the obvious, in favour of continued employment - I of course offer this advice for free...!
Oh, and watch out for lawyers - they are the larval stage of politicians!