The DisInformation Chronicle

The DisInformation Chronicle is an investigative journalism platform focusing on scientific disinformation, with an emphasis on health and pandemic-related topics. It scrutinizes government policies, media reporting, and pharmaceutical industry practices, questioning the validity of public health guidelines and the influence of conflicts of interest.

Health Policy and Guidelines Media and Journalism Ethics Pharmaceutical Industry Practices Government and Regulatory Actions Scientific Research and Integrity Social Media and Information Censorship

The hottest Substack posts of The DisInformation Chronicle

And their main takeaways
450 implied HN points • 17 Jun 25
  1. Christian Drosten, a prominent German virologist, is facing scrutiny over his past statements about the origins of COVID-19, particularly regarding the lab leak theory.
  2. Gain-of-function research, which involves making viruses more dangerous, has come under increased ethical debate as the risks it poses to public health are significant.
  3. There is a growing call among scientists to halt risky gain-of-function experiments, as many believe they could lead to future pandemics if not carefully controlled.
380 implied HN points • 12 Jun 25
  1. Michael Hiltzik, a columnist, has been accused of unethical behavior in his journalism, particularly related to COVID-19 vaccine injuries. This raises concerns about the integrity of the information being shared.
  2. Dr. Danice Hertz and Brianne Dressen, both of whom suffered from vaccine injuries, highlight that their experiences are often dismissed and labeled unfairly, emphasizing the need for more open dialogue and research into vaccine side effects.
  3. The reactions and symptoms reported by these individuals are real and significant, stressing the importance of informed consent and proper medical attention for those who experience adverse reactions to vaccines.
590 implied HN points • 05 Jun 25
  1. The NIH is shutting down its expensive Infectious Disease Centers, which were started to handle emerging diseases. This move means that some funded researchers might lose their grants.
  2. Kristian Andersen, a researcher involved in the controversial 'Proximal Origin' paper, is leaving the US to take a position at the University of Oslo. His past work has sparked serious scrutiny about its ties to grant funding.
  3. There are ongoing investigations into whether Andersen misled intelligence agencies regarding the origins of COVID-19. This has raised concerns about academic integrity and accountability.
575 implied HN points • 28 May 25
  1. The New York Times is seen as biased in its reporting, especially regarding COVID-19. Many believe it focuses more on a specific narrative than the actual facts.
  2. Carl Zimmer, a science writer for the Times, reported on a study that some believe is misleading. Critics argue that it overlooks important evidence about the origins of COVID-19.
  3. There are ongoing debates about whether the COVID-19 virus originated from wildlife or from a lab accident. The article suggests that the lab theory is not getting enough attention in mainstream reporting.
655 implied HN points • 23 May 25
  1. Jake Tapper's new book claims that Democrats covered up President Biden's mental decline. This raises questions about media honesty and trust.
  2. Many journalists, including Tapper, previously defended Biden despite obvious signs of his struggles. This complicity has damaged the credibility of the media.
  3. The debate about Biden's mental health sparked further arguments among experts and pundits, showing a divided response in the media about who is held accountable.
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4920 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
  1. Laura Helmuth, editor of Scientific American, faced backlash and resigned after her own controversial tweets were shared online. Many said her comments showed a clear bias against certain political groups.
  2. The incident sparked a debate about the standards in science journalism, highlighting how some writers may prioritize political agendas over objective reporting.
  3. Despite the controversy, some members of the science writing community continued to support Helmuth, raising questions about accountability and the direction of science communication.
2075 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
  1. Dr. Matthew J. Memoli has been appointed as the acting NIH director to help ease tensions within the agency during the transition.
  2. There are concerns about the previous NIH leadership, particularly Lawrence Tabak, who some claim has been dishonest and evasive regarding the origins of the COVID pandemic.
  3. Memoli's leadership could lead to changes within NIH, as the Trump transition team aims to remove other officials linked to past controversies and restore transparency.
1105 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
  1. Biden pardoned Fauci just before leaving office, suggesting he might have faced serious charges. This pardon has raised concerns about accountability for his actions during the pandemic.
  2. Fauci allegedly misled Congress about funding for the Wuhan Institute of Virology, which has drawn a lot of scrutiny and could lead to further investigations.
  3. There are ongoing tensions within the NIH, as leadership changes are expected following discussions about corruption during the pandemic and the Trump team's influence.
885 implied HN points • 05 Feb 25
  1. A new journal aims to improve communication in public health and share a variety of expert opinions. This is important since many voices were silenced during the pandemic.
  2. The journal will pay peer reviewers for their work, making the process fairer and more efficient. This could help improve the quality of published research.
  3. By publishing peer reviews alongside articles, the journal hopes to promote openness in scientific discussions. This can help challenge the existing norms and biases in traditional scientific publishing.
2465 implied HN points • 22 Oct 24
  1. A group of British advisors is working with Kamala Harris to undermine Elon Musk's Twitter. They plan to do this by attacking its advertising revenue and promoting censorship.
  2. The Center for Countering Digital Hate, linked to these advisors, has been active in U.S. politics, attempting to influence legislation and public perception about misinformation online.
  3. There are concerns about the legality of the CCDH's actions, especially since they may violate rules for tax-exempt organizations by engaging in substantial lobbying efforts.
1410 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
  1. Leaving behind hate-filled comments can lead to serious consequences, like getting fired or resigning from a job.
  2. Many science writers may share extreme political views that can affect the credibility of their journalism.
  3. To regain trust, media outlets need to clean up their practices and focus on reporting accurately, without political bias.
670 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
  1. The CIA recently suggested that the COVID virus likely originated from a lab in Wuhan, which contradicts earlier claims that labeled this idea as a conspiracy theory. This has caused a stir among scientists and writers who previously dismissed these claims.
  2. Some scientists who once strongly rejected the lab leak theory are now reconsidering their stance, as new assessments show that the virus's origin is still unresolved. They admit there is no definitive proof for either a natural or lab-based origin.
  3. The claim that calling the lab leak theory a conspiracy was unfounded has been echoed by various commentators. Many are now acknowledging that skepticism about the virus's origin deserves more serious discussion.
565 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
  1. The article critiques a piece by Emily Mullin that is critical of a new science journal, saying it contains many errors and misleading statements. It argues that journalists can sometimes promote their own biases instead of focusing on factual reporting.
  2. It highlights a term called 'dial-a-quote,' where writers seek quotes from people they know will support their narrative, instead of looking for a balanced perspective. This practice can skew the way information is presented to readers.
  3. The discussion raises concerns about the credibility of some researchers who contribute to science writing. It points out how certain quotes and opinions may align with existing narratives rather than presenting objective scientific information.
840 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
  1. The New York Times' opinion page is facing criticism for not sticking to strong journalism standards anymore. Many believe it prioritizes narratives over facts.
  2. Recent articles in the Times show a lack of thorough fact-checking and reliance on questionable information. This has led to misleading claims being widely shared.
  3. There are growing concerns about the connections between writers at the Times and big industries, especially in how they report on issues like healthcare and the opioid crisis.
690 implied HN points • 17 Dec 24
  1. Kristian Andersen, a researcher at the Scripps Institute, has been accused of lying in his statements to Congress about COVID-19 origins. His past actions have raised questions about his credibility.
  2. Emails show that Andersen initially thought the COVID-19 virus might be genetically engineered, but changed his stance after discussions with influential figures like Tony Fauci. This shift has led to scrutiny over his motivations.
  3. The recent House Select Committee report suggests possible attempts to cover up the true origins of the virus. Andersen is accused of misleading the public and Congress, which could potentially lead to legal consequences.
1000 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
  1. The Trump campaign plans to investigate the UK-based Center for Countering Digital Hate (CCDH) after discovering their agenda includes targeting platforms like Twitter. They feel this group is unfairly attacking political allies of Trump.
  2. CCDH has been involved in recent electoral strategies and supports stricter online censorship measures. This has raised concerns among Trump supporters, who believe foreign groups shouldn't influence US elections.
  3. The CCDH has shown a focus on deplatforming specific voices and intervening in elections, leading to worries about free speech. Their documents indicate a clear agenda against platforms perceived as harmful.
305 implied HN points • 12 Feb 25
  1. Congress is looking into groups that censor information to understand their impact better. They want to remove organizations that they think are unfairly controlling what people can see and say.
  2. The investigation revealed that the Center for Countering Digital Hate, despite claims, doesn't only target one political side. It actually targets anyone who goes against mainstream beliefs from a center-left perspective.
  3. Censorship affects both conservative and liberal voices, indicating it's not just about political affiliation. People on both sides can be silenced if they don't follow certain cultural and political norms.
355 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
  1. Be skeptical of what you read in major media, like the New York Times. It's important to question the facts presented to you.
  2. Some writers may ignore the reality of significant issues, such as inflation, which can lead to misleading conclusions.
  3. It's crucial to look closely at the evidence behind claims, particularly in areas like science and public health, as not all information is based on strong evidence.
335 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
  1. The holiday season in Spain lasts a long time, starting from Christmas Eve and going until January 6. It's a festive time filled with celebrations.
  2. There's a growing community supporting The DisInformation Chronicle, with subscriptions surpassing 31,000. This shows that many people find value in the content.
  3. Taking time to enjoy food, friends, and family during the holidays is important, especially for those who often work hard. It's a reminder to relax and appreciate life.
2005 implied HN points • 09 Jan 24
  1. FDA Commissioner is promoting products off-label, which is illegal marketing scheme criticized by Democrats
  2. There are concerns about conflicts of interest in reporting on COVID vaccine efficacy
  3. Clinicians may not always see conflicts of interest when receiving payments from pharmaceutical companies
435 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
  1. An investigation into a British group is gaining worldwide attention for allegedly interfering in American elections. This shows how global these issues can be.
  2. The story reached over 40 million views on social media, highlighting its popularity and importance. It even got discussed on a major BBC program.
  3. Various media appearances and interviews are ongoing, emphasizing the connection between censorship and democracy. This issue is resonating with many people.
245 implied HN points • 02 Jan 25
  1. The publication has over 31,000 readers and aims to expose corruption and misinformation in the media and government. It's always important to stay informed about what's really happening around us.
  2. Recent stories cover topics like political manipulation, censorship, and the effectiveness of masks, suggesting there are many hidden truths in the current narrative.
  3. The community is encouraged to support the publication through paid subscriptions, as this helps it to continue growing and uncovering more important stories.
385 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
  1. Media organizations are teaming up to push narratives that silence critics of politicians. This raises concerns about free speech in a democratic society.
  2. YouTube and other platforms are being pressured to remove content labeled as misinformation, often targeting conservative voices. This suggests a targeted effort to control the information available to the public.
  3. There is increasing scrutiny and criticism of social media platforms like Twitter for their handling of misinformation, particularly as they relate to upcoming elections. This scrutiny often coincides with efforts to diminish the reach of certain viewpoints.
225 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
  1. When following election coverage, it's important to read from a variety of sources to get a balanced view. This helps you avoid bias and misinformation.
  2. Be careful with fact-checkers and mainstream media, as they may not always provide accurate or objective information. It's good to question what you hear.
  3. Alternative media can also be misleading, so approach it with caution. Look for trustworthy sources to get the truth.
865 implied HN points • 08 Feb 24
  1. CDC Director Mandy Cohen did not dismiss the idea of reinstituting mask mandates for toddlers.
  2. CDC's own scientists are in disagreement with the claim that N95 respirators are more effective than surgical masks.
  3. CDC has faced controversy over shifting stances on mask efficacy in stopping the spread of COVID.
815 implied HN points • 31 Jan 24
  1. COVID Inquiry in the UK highlights failures of lockdown policies and issues with government advisors
  2. Top government advisors criticized media for promoting harmful COVID misinformation
  3. Journalists pointed out contradictions in the statements of government advisors during the inquiry
670 implied HN points • 22 Feb 24
  1. Misinformation researcher Sander van der Linden was caught lying and spreading misinformation, tarnishing his credibility.
  2. The incident sheds light on the concern that 'misinformation research' might be used for political purposes to silence dissent on controversial topics.
  3. Van der Linden's behavior on social media and Wikipedia highlights potential manipulation to create a false image of credibility and promote personal research.
710 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
  1. Fauci admitted the 6-feet social distancing guideline lacked scientific evidence.
  2. Gonsalves, an activist turned academic, has a history of diagnosing all medical crises as AIDS-related.
  3. Gonsalves made unsupported medical claims in a legal declaration, citing a news article as evidence.
630 implied HN points • 19 Jan 24
  1. A Chinese researcher who mapped the COVID virus was on Fauci's payroll before China released the sequence.
  2. Questions arise about NIH funding in China and the timeline of understanding COVID.
  3. The Chinese researcher's initial virus sequence wasn't published but was similar to later ones.
405 implied HN points • 01 Mar 24
  1. The COVID pandemic exposed flaws in science writing, with inaccurate reporting on various issues like vaccines, masks, and the origin of the virus.
  2. It is crucial to distinguish between science writing and journalism, as science writers often rely on experts' opinions without conducting investigative reporting.
  3. The case of Jon Cohen, labeled 'Crooked Cohen,' showcases a prime example of misleading pandemic science writing, emphasizing the importance of accurate and unbiased reporting.
390 implied HN points • 20 Feb 24
  1. Florida Grand Jury discovered that average citizens are skeptical of the 'follow the science' messaging regarding masks and social distancing.
  2. The CDC's data on masks from their journal MMWR was criticized for lacking quality science.
  3. Federal officials have hesitated to conduct a Randomized Controlled Trial (RCT) on masks, possibly due to concerns that the results might not support the effectiveness of masks in preventing the spread of respiratory viruses.
375 implied HN points • 15 Feb 24
  1. A German newspaper forced Science Magazine to correct a study about the pandemic origin, while American science writers ignored new research questioning the study's validity.
  2. The Science Magazine study, claiming the pandemic began in a wet market, was criticized for its statistical methodology by experts from Germany and Hong Kong, raising doubts about its conclusions.
  3. Independent experts confirmed the criticism of the study, highlighting flaws in the statistical analysis and describing Science Magazine's handling of the methodology as careless and unprofessional.
760 implied HN points • 21 May 23
  1. Social media companies censor 'true content' on vaccines in line with government and pharma interests
  2. Big Pharma spends millions on social media ads while platforms regulate vaccine 'misinformation'
  3. There's a conflict in regulating pharma 'misinformation' on social media while Pharma is a major advertising client
715 implied HN points • 02 Jun 23
  1. NIH scientist testified on the importance of natural immunity after COVID infection
  2. Many countries outside the US acknowledged natural immunity but America hasn't
  3. Public trust in science has declined due to reasons like censorship and conflicts of interest
580 implied HN points • 11 Jul 23
  1. Follow the documents and money to get to the truth, not just the science.
  2. Constant evidence suggests a cover-up regarding the pandemic's origin.
  3. Scientists and officials involved in the investigation have been misleading in their testimonies and actions.