Pathological Rationalism Essay Example for Free

Pathological Rationalism Essay We often encounter a lot of pathological rationalism in the media. Oftentimes, the claims of some commercials and advertisements are half-truths interspersed with testimonies designed to convince people of their truthfulness and helpfulness when in fact, the claims are not acknowledged by nutritional science. Because its marketing and distribution is not prohibited by law, Vitamin O was marketed as a supplement with beneficial effects for anemia, cancer and the improvement of energy and of the mind. These effects, however, are but manifestations of the placebo effect and what is claimed as Vitamin O is saltwater with few additional contents (CNN Interactive, 1999). Because of the lack of scientific basis, the Federal Trade Commission brought against the makers of Vitamin O and the company was ordered by the court to return the money of the customers who bought it because the accounts and the evidences presented in the media about Vitamin O is â€Å"blatantly false† (CNN Interactive, 1999). In dealing with media, there should be a reasonable level of skepticism and an effort to verify the information presented. This is a noble approach in dealing with information from the media. Believing immediately might be costly, especially in matters that concern health and well-being in life. Although testimonies are helpful, the motives of these testimonies should also be analyzed if they are only meant to help sell the product. By doing this, we can be protected from the hype and glut perpetrated by the media. Another pathological rationalism is the speech of Iran’s President at Columbia University. In the interest of free speech, he was allowed to address American students although he is known for his extremist views about developing nuclear weapons and making war with Israel. If people would start believing in him right away, he would create havoc. Yet, effective research should be done to verify and counter the arguments he presented.