According to Michael Specter, Americans have come to mistrust science more than ever before. He uses the term "denialism" to describe when society ignores scientific fact in favor of myths or ideologies. Specter argues that denialism is at work when parents resist getting their children vaccinated, when faith is put in dietary supplements, and when officials ignore the potential of genetically engineered crops to reduce famine. In "Denialism" Specter advocates to embrace new technologies and advancements, while acknowledging their threats and limitations.

Guest:

Michael Specter, author of "Denialism: How Irrational Thinking Hinders Scientific Progress, Harms the Planet, and Threatens Our Lives" (Penguin Press). Since 1998 he has written for the New Yorker about science, technology, and public health.