Thomas Aechtner – författare

This book examines why the religion-science skirmishes known as the Evolution Wars have persisted into the 21st century. It does so by considering the influences of mass media in relation to decision-making research and the Elaboration Likelihood Model, one of the most authoritative persuasion theories. The book’s analysis concentrates on the expression of cues, or cognitive mental shortcuts, in Darwin-sceptic and counter-creationist broadcasts. A multiyear collection of media generated by the most prominent Darwin-sceptic organizations is surveyed, along with rival publications from supporters of evolutionary theory described as the pro-evolutionists. The analysed materials include works produced by Young Earth Creationist and Intelligent Design media makers, New Atheist pacesetters, as well as both agnostic and religious supporters of evolution. These cues are shown to function as subtle but effective means of shaping public opinion, including appeals to expertise, claims that ideas are being censored, and the tactical use of statistics and technical jargon.Contending that persuasive mass media is a decisive component of science-religion controversies, this book will be of keen interest to scholars of Religion, Science and Religion interactions, as well as researchers of Media and Communication Studies more generally.

This book examines why the religion-science skirmishes known as the Evolution Wars have persisted into the 21st century. It does so by considering the influences of mass media in relation to decision-making research and the Elaboration Likelihood Model, one of the most authoritative persuasion theories. The book’s analysis concentrates on the expression of cues, or cognitive mental shortcuts, in Darwin-sceptic and counter-creationist broadcasts. A multiyear collection of media generated by the most prominent Darwin-sceptic organizations is surveyed, along with rival publications from supporters of evolutionary theory described as the pro-evolutionists. The analysed materials include works produced by Young Earth Creationist and Intelligent Design media makers, New Atheist pacesetters, as well as both agnostic and religious supporters of evolution. These cues are shown to function as subtle but effective means of shaping public opinion, including appeals to expertise, claims that ideas are being censored, and the tactical use of statistics and technical jargon.Contending that persuasive mass media is a decisive component of science-religion controversies, this book will be of keen interest to scholars of Religion, Science and Religion interactions, as well as researchers of Media and Communication Studies more generally.*Winner ISSR 2021 Book Prize*

This important book provides a comprehensive guide to understanding vaccine hesitancy, as well as the nuances of antivaccination claims. It is designed to give clinicians and other professionals targeted information to help them address vaccine hesitancy and antivaccination claims, as well as ways of responding to immunisation concerns. Alongside the scientific facts around vaccinations, it considers the historical foundations of modern vaccine scepticism, while offering key insights into the psychology behind vaccine hesitancy and the factors which influence an individual’s decision-making. Separating fact from fiction, the book explores the most well-known antivaccine myths, many of which proliferate online, uncovering ways that counter-vaccine narratives can influence audiences. Importantly, it also outlines the most effective strategies to address both doubts and misinformation, detailing five general principles to improve communications, with tips and guidance to debunk false claims or provide assurance in the face of immunisation doubts. This is essential reading for anyone wishing to really understand the phenomenon of vaccine hesitancy, whether professional, student or general reader, and the methods that can be used to challenge misinformation.