Investigation reveals so-called “expertise” comes entirely from years of education and professional experience
NATIONWIDE — A Newswax investigation has exposed experts as nothing more than people who spent years studying a subject. This revelation raises a simple question: why does anyone consult them at all?
“Let me get this straight,” said one concerned citizen. “Someone has a PhD in epidemiology. They studied disease transmission for 25 years. And we’re supposed to trust them over my cousin who watched some videos? That’s what they want us to believe?”
The investigation found troubling patterns. So-called experts typically hold advanced degrees. They publish peer-reviewed research. They possess professional credentials. However, critics argue these qualifications make them suspect.
How Experts Are Exposed As Educated People
The experts exposed by this report all followed the same troubling path. First, they attended universities. Then they completed coursework and passed examinations. After that, they conducted research. Finally, other experts reviewed their work.
“It’s an echo chamber,” explained one skeptic. “Experts reviewing other experts? That’s like having referees who actually know the rules. Where’s the accountability?”
Furthermore, many experts spent their careers in specialized fields. They devoted their professional lives to understanding complex topics. Meanwhile, they neglected to develop well-rounded common sense.
“I’m not an immunologist,” said a man outside a grocery store. “But you don’t need to be one to have opinions about immunology. Actually, maybe it’s better if you’re not. Less bias that way.”
The Problem With Experts: They Think They Know Things
Critics identify a fundamental problem. Experts believe specialized knowledge gives them special insight. This arrogance frustrates regular Americans.
“They say ‘studies show this’ and ‘evidence suggests that,'” said a concerned parent. “But what about my experience? What about my feelings? Why don’t those count?”
One expert struggled to defend her credentials. We asked why her 20 years of research should outweigh someone’s gut instinct. She seemed unable to answer simply.
“I… I mean, I’ve studied the primary sources,” she stammered. “I’ve conducted controlled experiments. Independent researchers replicated my work…”
“See?” said the interviewer. “She can’t answer a simple question without resorting to ‘evidence.'”
Who Can We Trust If Experts Are Exposed?
With experts exposed as biased by their own expertise, many ask who we should consult instead.
Candidates include: people with strong opinions. People who did their own research. People with large social media followings. And people who preface statements with “I’m not a [relevant expert], but…”
“I trust people brave enough to question things,” said one citizen. “Especially people who question things they don’t understand. That takes real courage.”
At press time, the investigation had expanded. Teachers now face scrutiny. They stand exposed as people who merely studied education and child development.
This story is developing.
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