The seemingly endless dissension and division in society has helped to contribute to a loss of trust in many of the institutions we have taken for granted in society. Medical care is only one of those areas where distrust has grown. Let’s take vaccines as an example. Aaron Siri, a key advisor to HHS nominee Kennedy pushed regulators to revoke FDA approval for polio vaccine and 13 other childhood vaccines.
Trust is an attitude toward an institution based on perceptions of that institution; in contrast, trustworthiness is an attribute or property of an institution. We do often hear the words, “Trust us” when we wonder if there is a grounds for trust. But polio vaccine is not one of those areas where trustworthiness is an issue. Neither are DTP or MMR.
Science may not be exact, but it is a lot better than political ideology. We learn through trial and error, sometimes called the scientific method. What counts is to obtain the best results we can to help and heal rather than buying into fears stoked by social media.
Prayer for the Day
You have given us minds to explore, learn, and think, O God,
But many listen only to political ideologues, sowing distrust;
You have given us the ability to expand our knowledge,
But many are beholden to old ways of doing things.
Grant us, O Lord, the wisdom to discern truth from falsehood,
So we are able to overcome reluctance based on fear.
In the name of the One who is our guide,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
We must respect established scientific facts. We must follow rigorous scientific protocols and follow the facts as they become available, but we do not need to turn back established medical protocols on the whim of those who have no medical training. There is no doubt about the safety and efficacy of the polio vaccine in preventing polio. None.
Steve Cohen, U.S. Representative (R-TN), polio survivor
Efforts to undermine public confidence in proven cures are not just uninformed — they’re dangerous.
Mitch McConnell, U.S. Senator (R-KY), polio survivor
Teach me your ways, O Lord, and lead me on a level path because of my enemies.
Do not give me up to the will of my adversaries,
For false witnesses have risen against me, and they are breathing out violence.
Psalm 27: 12