Ethics and non-evidence based therapies: Portuguese perspective in a global setting

A contemporary serious lack of scientific knowledge by the general public and many decision-makers is now quite perceptible, both globally and in Portugal. Living in a science-driven technological world filled with scientific illiteracy is dangerous and a path toward disaster. Recent years brought a fairly strong global movement promoting the so-called alternative therapy that also affected Portugal. I propose an evidence-based ethics reflection and argumentation, both encompassing the global and the specific Portuguese reality. I debate the specific arguments used in favour of alternative therapies, demonstrating the inherent fallacies of thought, deliberate manipulation of words and concepts, and the dire consequences for global and local health politics by following this line of biased reasoning.

Automated summary

The lack of scientific knowledge among the general public and decision-makers is a significant concern globally and in Portugal. This article highlights the dangers of living in a science-driven world with scientific illiteracy and the impact of the promotion of alternative therapies. The author proposes an evidence-based ethics reflection and argumentation to counter the arguments in favor of alternative therapies and the potential consequences for global and local health policies.