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The Skeptic's Guide to Alternative Medicine cover art

The Skeptic's Guide to Alternative Medicine

By: Steven Novella MD, The Great Courses
Narrated by: Steven Novella MD
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Summary

Energy medicine. Acupuncture. Superfoods. Healing magnets. What does the scientific evidence really say about these and other "alternative medicine" treatments for personal wellness?

How can we know if a natural remedy is safe and effective? How can people become their own best skeptical consumer of health news in the media? Join neurologist and science educator Dr. Steven Novella for a fascinating exploration of these and other important questions about the truths—and myths—behind alternative medicine.

Perhaps the most important skill to have in this brave new world of ever-changing medical news is the ability to evaluate sources and information, and to think critically about how alternative medicine is marketed, regulated, and used. Dr. Novella takes a rigorous, science-based approach in exploring so-called "popular" and "cutting-edge" trends. Armed with this knowledge, listeners will be in a much better position to assess alternative pathways to physical health.

Dr. Novella’s 10 leading-edge lectures will answer such questions as:

  • Do magnetic fields really have useful biological properties?
  • Why is chiropractic treatment no more effective for pain management than simple physical therapy? 
  • Can brain games truly make one smarter or help in staving off dementia?
  • Can homeopathic remedies, such as those derived from plants and minerals, really cure ailments?
  • Does cupping therapy really help to reduce pain and inflammation, while increasing blood flow?

Dr. Novella provides insights on the ever-widening gap between alternative medicine and scientific medicine, giving listeners the confidence they need to become their own best health advocates.

©2019 Audible Originals, LLC (P)2019 Audible Originals, LLC.

What listeners say about The Skeptic's Guide to Alternative Medicine

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    4 out of 5 stars

Now I want to research everything myself

I use a lot of alternative medicine. Now I need to think twice. This book got me thinking.

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Excellent course

Most interesting and shocking that there is still so much woooo in the world recommended listening

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    3 out of 5 stars

Missing another perspective

Love the lesson but all in all i thinkthat it lacks another perspective. The book is all scepticism. Loved it

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2 people found this helpful

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Really great!

Fan of sgu and of Doctor Novela. Great book lots of precise information. Specially during this covid19 crisis it is important to have a good understanding of what can and can not be trusted.

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Excellent look at alternative medicine

Well argued and clear dismantling of alternative medicine. Good introduction to scientific skepticism. A must-listen for people who believe in science, reason and critical thinking.

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First class insight into alternative medicine

Clear and concise, this course provides an excellent description of alternative medicine and the reasons why it should be viewed with caution from a science-based perspective. Without bias, sound reasoning is given throughout. an excellent course.

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3 people found this helpful

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Great book for those who dare to think

As someone with a background in science (cognitive neuroscience) but who grew up with a lot of alternative medicine and beliefs around me, I found this book to be very informative. I've always been curious but also skeptical about alternative therapies, but not known much about the scientific status of these - until now.

This book summarizes the existing evidence on a number of alternative therapies in a concise and easily understandable way. The author discusses the impact of research methods and cites actually reliable sources.

He also explains how science works, which may be helpful to those who don't yet understand scientific principles and processes (ie, those haters in the comments who desperately claim the book is biased/sponsored by big pharma, etc.).

Definitely worth a listen.

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  • 30-07-20

Everyone needs to listen to this

There are so many people out there who lack a funding grasp of science who fall prey to these ludicrous ideas that it's no wonder that the world at large doesnt listen to experts anymore. Especially when even experts can fall foul of not listening to the evidence and drawing their biased conclusions. The ability to think critically needs to be taught from a much earlier level to save people and their pets from those out to make a quick buck from those who don't but should know better.

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1 person found this helpful

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Detailed study of the alternative medicine

very easy to understand and follow. Origins and descriptions of each type of alternative medicine, what they manifest to offer, then compared to the scientific studies carried on their affirmations. Very interesting and enlightening.

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In depth and informative

I listen to this book with great interest. I was most impressed with the information provided, would recommend it to everybody

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1 person found this helpful