DOC/CURRICULUM/BOOK: Merchants of Doubt

[Frank W. Baker]

Inspired by the acclaimed book by Naomi Oreskes and Erik Conway, Merchants of Doubt takes audiences on a satirically comedic, yet illuminating ride into the heart of conjuring American spin.  Filmmaker Robert Kenner lifts the curtain on a secretive group of highly charismatic, silver-tongued pundits-for-hire who present themselves in the media as scientific authorities – yet have the contrary aim of spreading maximum confusion about well-studied public threats ranging from toxic chemicals to pharmaceuticals to climate change.

The Merchants of Doubt study guide, developed by the Poynter Institute in joint collaboration with Participant Media and Omidyar Network, is designed to help citizens develop critical thinking skills that will allow them to sort through confusing messages and distinguish between truth, propaganda, and misinformation. Each section examines statements made in the film and asks questions intended to trigger thoughtful discussions and debates.

Read the New York Times' review.