dw.com
Pseudoscientific Cancer Treatment Leads to Preventable Death
Karolina's mother died from breast cancer after refusing treatment based on Ryke Geerd Hamer's "New German Medicine," a pseudoscientific, antisemitic ideology spreading through online platforms and resulting in preventable deaths.
- What are the direct consequences of the "New German Medicine" ideology, and how many lives has it affected?
- Karolina's mother died of breast cancer after refusing conventional treatment due to her belief in the "New German Medicine" (NGM), a pseudoscientific ideology founded by the late physician Ryke Geerd Hamer. NGM posits that all diseases stem from psychological conflicts, rendering medical intervention unnecessary. This belief led to her forgoing chemotherapy, resulting in a prolonged and ultimately fatal illness.
- What measures can be implemented to effectively counter the influence of NGM and prevent similar tragedies in the future?
- The enduring influence of Hamer's NGM highlights the dangers of pseudoscience and antisemitic narratives. The movement's continued spread through online platforms underscores the need for critical media literacy and stronger countermeasures to combat the dissemination of harmful misinformation leading to avoidable medical tragedies. The lack of regulation and the accessibility of these platforms contribute to the problem's persistence.
- How does the spread of NGM through online platforms contribute to its impact, and what role do antisemitic elements play in its appeal?
- Hamer's NGM, characterized by its rejection of established medicine and embrace of antisemitic conspiracy theories, has claimed numerous lives. The movement, propagated through Telegram channels reaching tens of thousands, actively discourages conventional cancer treatment. This has directly resulted in preventable deaths, as exemplified by Karolina's mother's case.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article's framing strongly emphasizes the harmful effects of the 'New German Medicine,' using the tragic story of Karo and her mother as a central example. The headline (if there were one) likely emphasizes the dangers of this pseudo-medicine. This emphasis, while justified by the evidence, might overshadow other relevant aspects of the story or create a disproportionate focus on the negative consequences, potentially leading readers to perceive the movement as more dangerous or widespread than it actually is.
Language Bias
The article uses strong language to describe Hamer's ideology, such as "pseudo-medicine," "dangerous," and "antisemitic." While these terms accurately reflect the content of the ideology, the use of such charged language may influence the reader's perception, and alternatives might be considered. For instance, instead of "dangerous pseudo-medicine," the phrase "unproven and potentially harmful medical practices" could be used. Similarly, instead of saying Hamer was "antisemitic," specifying his antisemitic views might be less inflammatory.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the negative consequences of the 'New German Medicine' and its founder's antisemitic views, but it omits discussion of any potential positive aspects or testimonials from followers who might have had positive experiences (if any exist). This omission creates a one-sided narrative and might not represent the full range of perspectives on this movement. It also doesn't explore the reasons why people might be drawn to such alternative therapies, beyond the specific case of the family described.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a clear dichotomy between conventional medicine and the 'New German Medicine,' implying that one must choose between the two. It doesn't explore the possibility of integrative or complementary approaches, where aspects of both could potentially be beneficial. This simplification could lead readers to view the options as mutually exclusive, when in reality, the situation might be more nuanced.
Gender Bias
The article focuses on Karo's experience and her mother's illness. While it is a powerful story, it is unclear if a similar emphasis would have been given had the mother been a father. Additionally, while the article discusses the male founder, Rike Gerd Hamer, the potential influence of female figures in spreading the movement or alternative female perspectives on it is not explored. Further research into the gender balance of the movement's adherents might reveal areas for a more balanced representation.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the detrimental impact of the "New German Medicine" movement on individuals' health. The movement's rejection of conventional medical treatments, such as chemotherapy, led to preventable deaths, as exemplified by the death of Karo's mother who did not receive proper cancer treatment. This directly contradicts SDG 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages.