Fact Check: "Modern medicine and mainstream science are part of a global conspiracy for profits."
What We Know
The claim that modern medicine and mainstream science are part of a global conspiracy for profits is a common assertion among various conspiracy theories. These theories often allege that pharmaceutical companies and medical professionals prioritize profit over patient health. According to a review of medical conspiracy theories, these narratives have been prevalent throughout history and are often fueled by cognitive biases and societal distrust in institutions (Andrade, 2020).
A study conducted in Poland found that a significant portion of the population believes in conspiracy theories related to the pharmaceutical industry, with 63.1% of respondents believing that drug side effects are deliberately concealed (Makowska et al., 2025). This suggests a widespread skepticism towards the motives of healthcare providers and pharmaceutical companies, which can undermine public trust in medical advice and compliance with health guidelines.
Analysis
The assertion that modern medicine is part of a conspiracy for profits lacks credible evidence. While it is true that some individuals and groups propagate these theories, the majority of scientific and medical communities operate under ethical guidelines aimed at patient welfare. The article by Andrade discusses how conspiracy theories can arise from cognitive biases and the human tendency to seek explanations for complex events, rather than from factual evidence (Andrade, 2020).
Moreover, the prevalence of pharmaceutical industry conspiracy theories, as highlighted in the Polish study, indicates a correlation between belief in these theories and a lack of trust in healthcare institutions (Makowska et al., 2025). However, this does not substantiate the claim of a coordinated conspiracy; rather, it reflects a broader societal issue of distrust that can be addressed through education and transparency in healthcare practices.
The reliability of sources promoting the conspiracy theory often stems from anecdotal evidence or sensational claims rather than rigorous scientific research. For instance, claims made by public figures, such as Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has been known to promote anti-vaccine sentiments, often lack scientific backing and are criticized for spreading misinformation (Pethokoukis, 2023; Ars Technica, 2025).
In contrast, credible studies and reviews emphasize the importance of understanding the psychological underpinnings of why people believe in conspiracy theories and advocate for public health strategies to combat misinformation (Andrade, 2020; Makowska et al., 2025).
Conclusion
The claim that modern medicine and mainstream science are part of a global conspiracy for profits is False. It is primarily based on unfounded conspiracy theories that exploit public distrust in institutions rather than on factual evidence. The medical community is governed by ethical standards that prioritize patient health, and while there are legitimate concerns regarding the pharmaceutical industry's practices, these do not equate to a global conspiracy. Efforts to combat misinformation and improve public understanding of medical science are essential to counteract the harmful effects of such conspiracy theories.
Sources
- Medical conspiracy theories: cognitive science and implications for ethics
- Prevalence of pharmaceutical industry conspiracy theories among the Polish population
- Big Pharma conspiracy theories
- Prevalence of pharmaceutical industry conspiracy theories
- James Pethokoukis on X
- RFK Jr.'s health department calls Nature “junk science”
- Wellness Conspiracy Theories are Spreading | TIME
- Have you heard of these modern medical conspiracy theories?
