Summarised by Centrist
A Christchurch conference is bringing together international experts in oncology, ICU care, law, and behavioural science, alongside some well-known critics of mainstream COVID health narratives and a good bit of debate about what “Be Kind” really meant.
The New Zealand Doctors Speaking Out with Science (NZDSOS) is hosting the Empowering change: Methods, motivation and evidence conference, focusing on medical freedom, informed consent, and the right to refuse medical interventions.
NZDSOS have been vocal critics of the COVID vaccine rollout, raising concerns over its safety and efficacy.
Speakers include Professor Angus Dalgleish, an oncologist noted for his melanoma research, and Dr Paul Marik, a high-profile ICU specialist. Other notable speakers include Katie Ashby-Koppens, a lawyer with decades of experience in major legal cases, and Drs Matt Shelton and Alison Goodwin, both medical professionals known for their COVID perspectives.
Also speaking will be David Charalambous who will discuss how institutions use psychological techniques, such as behavioural nudges, to influence public perception and behaviour.
Charalambous argues that by manipulating the presentation of information and language, institutions shape decisions, create false beliefs, and promote conformity. This taps into emotional vulnerabilities, encouraging groupthink and steering public opinion to align with institutional interests without people realising they are being influenced.
The conference is set for Saturday at the James Hay Theatre in Christchurch.