Here is a link to an article I found on Retraction Watch. The whole thins is not long and well worth the time to read. For those without the time of inclination, there are two statements among many disturbing statements that raise the hair on the back of my neck. Under the header, “Broad shake-up” we have the following. Emphasis mine.
“It is trying to make it easier and quicker to produce reviews by creating evidence-synthesis units, as well as externally funded ‘thematic groups’ that represent broad area, such as health equity and global aging. “.
“She adds that the organization is developing a scientific strategy to focus on high-value reviews in areas aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.”
doi: https://doi.org/10.1038/d41586-023-02741-z
What more needs said?
I've heard Bret Weinstein and Heather Heying discuss the "intellectual capture" of Cochrane. Its co-founder was ousted in 2018. See here:
https://theconversation.com/cochrane-collaboration-expels-co-founder-splitting-board-and-prompting-walkout-103655
Here is an excerpt from the above article that gets to the point:
"Commenting on the BMJ website, Trisha Greenhalgh, while not privy to the full details of the case, implied that Gøtzsche could be seen by some as a technical purist whose rigidity could rile more pragmatic members."
Get it? Riling the "more pragmatic"?
Talking of SDGs. I got this spam recently
https://mailchi.mp/esg.supplierone.co/register-at-supplierone-by-supplierio-showcase-your-sustainability-and-diversity-to-businesses-worldwide-3817446
"Hello,
We are reaching out to invite you to create a SupplierOne profile. This profile allows you to connect with hundreds of active buyers looking for suppliers every day.
SupplierOne is part of Supplier.io, a leading platform that connects businesses with a diverse and sustainable network of suppliers worldwide.
At Supplier.io, we believe that business success goes beyond financial gain. It's also about ethical integrity, sustainability, and a commitment to diversity.
To this end, we have implemented an innovative feature that allows our registered suppliers to add their Diversity and/or ESG standards, policies and certifications.
This information is vital to our customers as they seek to make procurement decisions that align with their values and objectives.
We are extending an invitation for you to join the SupplierOne platform.
By registering, you'll not only gain exposure to businesses seeking your products or services, but you'll also have the opportunity to showcase your dedication to sustainable practices and diversity.
..."
Very tempted to register and entirely fictitious company which supplies fracking fluid or similar