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.
54% Yes |
46% No |
45% Yes |
29% No |
6% Yes, this will decrease the amount of misinformation patients receive |
7% 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 |
6% No, only when the advice was proven to harm the patient |
4% 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 1.3k Canada voters.
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See how importance of “Medical Consensus” has changed over time for 1.3k Canada voters.
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Unique answers from Canada users whose views extended beyond the provided choices.
@9LHLKDC1mo1MO
No, as long as they discuss this advice first with healthcare officials first and have gotten approval.
@9L4GGFD2mos2MO
No, and abolish all occupational licensing
@9H645856mos6MO
I am unsure as there is a lot of mix ups and constantly changing information as well as weaponisation of science to push agendas
@9G9M53L7mos7MO
yes, but only if they are penalizing the patient for not following. also if they are doing so in their own office.
@99KYW5R1yr1Y
No as long as they don’t stop patients from seeking treatment
@99KVBFJ1yr1Y
I don’t know what this means
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