Scientists seek chemical reaction from journalists

Imagine the headline “Water: my miracle hangover cure.” Or try “E-numbers for health and vitality!” What about “Chemical cocktail saves baby's life”? If a campaign aimed at changing journalists' perceptions of all things chemical proves successful, these headlines may not prove too wide of the mark. This week Sense About Science, a charity promoting an evidence based approach to scientific issues, launched a media briefing paper, “Making Sense of Chemical Stories” (www.senseaboutscience.org.uk). Its aim: to make mincemeat of six misconceptions that surround the science of substances. These range from the patently ludicrous (that you can lead a “chemical-free life”) to the sadly deluded (that natural chemicals are somehow healthier than synthetic ones). …