BoyyDavoMan
Well-known member
Dee Dee -
The question is whether information is false or is it just taken out of context? Is a statement a general statement or a specific case?
The human body is incredibly complex, and everyone's body operates differently. Why do some people survive cancer and others don't? Websites, books, articles, etc. make generalizations, but each case is unique. We look for patterns that are typical, but there are always exceptions.
Many sites make statements that are generalized, but may not be true for all cases. I remember reading my Merck Manual and seeing the words "fasciculations are indicative of motor neuron disease, but can sometimes occur in normal patients." This is a dangerous statement for someone without medical training. In reality the opposite could probably be said: "Fasciculations generally occur in normal patients, but are sometimes indicative of motor neuron disease." However, the intent (as I see it) is to make sure that doctors consider MND as a possibility and that they are thorough in their examination of a patient with symptoms of motor disorders.
Getting half the story is sometimes just as bad as getting a false story. Much of it depends on the intent of the statement. Are they trying to make people aware of it? Are they trying to emphasize caution and thoroughness in diagnoses? We need to understand the underlying motivation at times before we judge.
Do people sometimes give false information? Sure. They may have a sadistic streak that gets pleasure out of creating fear and anxiety in others. But I think most people have good intentions.
And remember, the Road to Hell is paved with good intentions.
The question is whether information is false or is it just taken out of context? Is a statement a general statement or a specific case?
The human body is incredibly complex, and everyone's body operates differently. Why do some people survive cancer and others don't? Websites, books, articles, etc. make generalizations, but each case is unique. We look for patterns that are typical, but there are always exceptions.
Many sites make statements that are generalized, but may not be true for all cases. I remember reading my Merck Manual and seeing the words "fasciculations are indicative of motor neuron disease, but can sometimes occur in normal patients." This is a dangerous statement for someone without medical training. In reality the opposite could probably be said: "Fasciculations generally occur in normal patients, but are sometimes indicative of motor neuron disease." However, the intent (as I see it) is to make sure that doctors consider MND as a possibility and that they are thorough in their examination of a patient with symptoms of motor disorders.
Getting half the story is sometimes just as bad as getting a false story. Much of it depends on the intent of the statement. Are they trying to make people aware of it? Are they trying to emphasize caution and thoroughness in diagnoses? We need to understand the underlying motivation at times before we judge.
Do people sometimes give false information? Sure. They may have a sadistic streak that gets pleasure out of creating fear and anxiety in others. But I think most people have good intentions.
And remember, the Road to Hell is paved with good intentions.