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Rationalists will rejoice, but proponents of homeopathy and herbal remedies may feel the need for a soothing tincture. Ezard Ernst, professor emeritus of alternative medicine, has been awarded the 2015 John Maddox Award for Standing Up for Science.
Since the early 1990s, Professor Ernst has been dedicated to validating the claims of alternative health practitioners, applying the same scientific rigor that is standard for orthodox medicine. His appointment at Exeter University was initially greeted with enthusiasm by those who rejoiced at the prospect of academic recognition for their strange treatments. Their joy did not last long. To the dismay of many, Ernst became the scourge of alternative medicine.
He always denied that he was a “charlatan” and insisted he acted on evidence. If it’s positive, say so. But he admits that most treatments are crap and only a few should be encouraged. Alternative medicine is very popular, and it’s no wonder he’s furious at the lies used to promote it.
His work has made him enemies – most notably Prince Charles, to whom he mischievously dedicated his 2008 book. Trick or Treat. He was a relentless critic of the prince and his Integrative Health Foundation. The foundation was shut down in 2010 after 17 years of operation amid allegations of fraud. Ernst claimed Charles was behind the University of Exeter closing his department in 2011 and forcing him into early retirement, but this claim has always been denied.
Despite the seeming weight of royal disapproval, Ernst maintained an unwavering commitment to scientific principles when verifying the claims of the experts he studied. He has repeatedly called for a return to the first principles of evidence and scientific inquiry, rather than simply dismissing his critics. His methods alone make him worthy of this award.
For 20 years, he has protected our dignity, our pockets, and our health as he navigates the boundaries between magic and medicine. For that, we salute him.
