X died of pneumonia doing experiments in the cold myths?

In summary, the conversation discusses the issue of science texts including unfounded and unscientific anecdotes as facts. Specifically, the conversation mentions the story of Goodricke, who allegedly died from pneumonia while making nightly observations, and the Francis Bacon myth of catching a 'chill' while doing refrigeration experiments with chicken. The speaker argues that these anecdotes should be presented as stories rather than facts, and questions if there are other similar stories still being parroted as fact in science literature.
  • #1
papazulu
3
0
Can science text writers please stop repeating these sorts of unfounded, unscientifically grounded anecdotes in science texts as if they are fact.

I was just reading in Universe 8th ed. astronomy text and found this passage:

"Sadly, Goodricke paid for his discoveries with his life; he caught pneumonia
while making his nightly observations and died before his
twenty-second birthday."

Really! Come on man, they have to stop doing this. The same applies to science lit that features the Francis Bacon myth of catching a 'chill' while doing refrigeration experiments with Chicken. Even if the somewhat sketchy link between cold weather and sickness could still be technically verified (meaning the actual 'cold' itself), there is absolutely no evidence whatsoever that either Goodricke or Bacon died from doing their work in the cold. People have been working in cold weather since time immemorial. These are science texts in which you are trying to get your students to take you seriously. I mean, it would probably be fine to reference the anecdote just so long as you presented it in an "as the story goes" fashion with some qualifying remark. But to come right out and say Goodricke's nightly observations killed him. Geez.

I am kind of curious if anyone can think of any other similar stories that tend to still be parroted as fact in science literature.
 
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1. What are the origins of the myth that people can die of pneumonia while doing experiments in the cold?

The myth likely originated from a few different sources. One possibility is that it stems from the fact that cold weather can weaken the immune system, making people more susceptible to respiratory infections like pneumonia. Additionally, there have been cases where people have died while conducting experiments in cold environments, leading to the assumption that pneumonia was the cause.

2. Is there any scientific evidence to support this myth?

No, there is no scientific evidence to support the claim that people can die of pneumonia while doing experiments in the cold. In fact, studies have shown that pneumonia is caused by bacterial or viral infections and not by exposure to cold temperatures.

3. Can exposure to cold temperatures increase the risk of developing pneumonia?

While exposure to cold temperatures may weaken the immune system and make individuals more vulnerable to respiratory infections, it is not a direct cause of pneumonia. Pneumonia is caused by bacteria or viruses, not by exposure to cold weather.

4. Are there any precautions scientists should take when conducting experiments in the cold to prevent pneumonia?

Yes, scientists should take precautions to prevent pneumonia when conducting experiments in cold environments. This includes dressing warmly, taking breaks to warm up, and avoiding prolonged exposure to cold temperatures. It is also important to maintain good hygiene and avoid close contact with others who may be sick.

5. What are the actual risks of conducting experiments in cold environments?

The actual risks of conducting experiments in cold environments vary depending on the specific conditions and duration of exposure. These risks may include hypothermia, frostbite, and respiratory infections. However, with proper precautions and preparation, these risks can be minimized. It is important for scientists to assess the potential risks and take necessary precautions before conducting experiments in cold environments.

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