[Fiddlstix]

BTTT

[saganite]

It occurs when exposure to low doses of otherwise dangerous or toxic compounds or radiation actually causes mild benefits to the exposed.


Ah, it's good to know my daily cigar and bourbon nightcap are leading me to a healthier, longer life.

[Seadog Bytes]

junk science ping

[RightWingAtheist]

A review of Tom Bethell's new book in the house organ of the John Birch Society?

[punster]

A few of examples relating to background radiation exposures:

1. Kerala Province of India. The background radiation level in Kerala is about 1.5 REM/Yr (0.015 Sievert/Yr), about 4 times the average for other areas of India. Kerala Province has a significantly lower incidence of cancer than the rest of India.

2. Guaparaj, Brazil. The background radiation level is approximately 1.5 REM/Yr (0.015 Sievert/Yr). Yet, there is no excess incidence of cancer in Guaparaj.

3. The Rocky Mountain States in the United States. Because of elevation and geology, the background radiation level is significantly higher in these states. However, there is no excess incidence of cancer.

4. Ramsar, Iran. The background level is about 10 REM/Yr (0.1 Sievert/Yr). Yet, again, there is no excess incidence of cancer.

[CarrotAndStick]

According to Bethell, hormesis is one of the deeply hidden secrets of modern science, but is so widespread "it deserves to be called a law of nature." It occurs when exposure to low doses of otherwise dangerous or toxic compounds or radiation actually causes mild benefits to the exposed.

This is the essence of homeopathy. But this phenomenon is highly over-simplified here, and works in a limited manner only.