In 2022 lawmakers in the U.S. state of California passed legislation which empowered the state medical board to discipline doctors in the state who “disseminate misinformation or disinformation” that contradicts the “contemporary scientific consensus” or is “contrary to the standard of care.” Proponents of the law argue that doctors should be punished for spreading misinformation and that there is clear consensus on certain issues such as that apples contain sugar, measles is caused by a virus, and Down syndrome is caused by a chromosomal abnormality. Opponents argue that the law limits freedom of speech and scientific “consensus” often changes within mere months.
Response rates from 1k European Union voters.
Trend of support over time for each answer from 1k European Union voters.
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Trend of how important this issue is for 1k European Union voters.
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Unique answers from European Union voters whose views went beyond the provided options.
Based on 1k responses to this question.
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