List date(s) this work was published or aired.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
Provide a brief synopsis of the story or stories, including any significant findings.
Few things rile scientific skeptics more than homeopathy, a baffling form of alternative medicine. Though used for centuries and some studies have reported positive findings, the practice has no scientific basis. We explain to consumers what homeopathy is (it’s often confused with herbal treatments) and why supporters say it shouldn’t be discounted just because it can’t be explained.
Explain types of documents, data or Internet resources used. Were FOI or public records act requests required? How did this affect the work?
National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine, PubMed Cochrane Collection Help a Reporter Out
Explain types of human sources used.
I spent a lot of time talking to researchers on both sides of the issue; those who reported positive findings in peer reviewed medical journals and those who found the treatments are little more than a placebo. Interviewed companies that manufacturer the products, people who use homeopathy, advocates and critics.
Results:
I successfully angered both supporters and critics of homeopathy. We also received feedback thanking us for clarifying what homeopathy actually is and praising the article for its balance.
Follow-up (if any). Have you run a correction or clarification on the report or has anyone come forward to challenge its accuracy? If so, please explain.
No clarifications needed.
Advice to other journalists planning a similar story or project.
Homeopathy is an extremely tricky issue to report, in part because reporters need to be able to accurately analyze whether the study results are coming from quality trials. Supporters frequently point to these new findings as proof that it works — or proof that it might be able to work — but so far there’s not enough evidence. Be very careful of the types of sources used. If someone is an advocate, be sure it’s clearly stated. Homeopathy skeptics will be angry that you’re writing about it to begin with (since the products contain no active ingredients), but there’s a huge market for homeopathic products and it’s important people known the truth about what they are buying.