Interesting and timely, at least in my classes, students are often mistaking their opinion as equal to a person who is a specialist.
However, one is reminded of the book, "The Structure of Scientific Revolutions" by Kuhn. Especially when it is about medical research, which often involves large financial investments in research. The discussion of whether or not the lay person can have an opinion on vaccines  reminds me of whether or not midwives should be allowed to practice. In some states most with medical degrees are against it, but then, they stand to lose money.
Who is conducting the research on vaccines? Companies that provide them?
I am not for or against them, but I am for people who are impacted by their use, having an opinion and being able to question medical researchers, who may possibly be compromised in their recommendations because of research funding.

It begins to remind me of the 'science' behind the testing in schools. Who is the expert? The company who makes tests is asked do we need more tests AND surprise, surprise the answer is YES!

We always need to question those who have a dog in the fight.



From: <Greenberg>, Jim <[log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>>
Reply-To: Teaching Breakfast List <[log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>>
Date: Friday, October 12, 2012 9:29 PM
To: "[log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>" <[log in to unmask]<mailto:[log in to unmask]>>
Subject: You Are NOT Entitled to Your Opinion

http://theconversation.edu.au/no-youre-not-entitled-to-your-opinion-9978

Jim G.