Simon Singh

Simon Singh is one of Britain's best science writers who last year co-authored a book called 'Trick or Treatment?' in which he examined the science behind many forms of alternative medicine. Simon looked at claims made by the British Chiropractic Association that chiropractic treatment could solve not only back pain but was also appropriate for children suffering ear infections, colic, feeding problems and persistent crying. He concluded these claims were "bogus".

Rather than respond with the evidence to back up their claims the BCA have responded by taking Simon to court in a suit which has so far cost Simon £100,000 to defend. Even more perversely they are arguing not that there is evidence to back up the medical claims they had made, but rather that there is no proof that they had been "intentionally dishonest" so Simon should not have used the word "bogus".

Such suits are not uncommon - Ben Goldacre - creator of "Bad Science," was forced to risk losing millions when Vitamin Pill Magnate Matthias Rath brought a libel suit against him. Matthias Rath bought full page adverts denouncing Aids drugs in South Africa in order to promote his own vitamin pills.

If you feel libel laws have become the preserve of those who can afford incredible million pound law suits, Saudi Oil Barons accused of terrorist links, dodgy Vitamin Pill millionaires, and MacDonalds (see the excellent documentary McLibel) come to the talk and find out about why scientific enquiry urgently needs libel reform.

When?

Tuesday, 26 January 2010 18:00

Where?

Clothworkers South Building LT 2 (3.04)