Scott Alexander refutes Stephen Skolnick's theory that schizophrenia is caused by gut microbes rather than genetics, showing why the evidence better supports schizophrenia being a complex genetic neurodevelopmental disorder. Longer summary

Scott Alexander responds to Stephen Skolnick's theory that schizophrenia is caused by gut microbes rather than genetics. He systematically dismantles Skolnick's arguments by showing that twin concordance rates are exactly what we'd expect from a genetic condition, that microbiological inheritance patterns don't match schizophrenia inheritance patterns, and that the gut bacteria evidence cited was likely caused by antipsychotic medication rather than being causative. He concludes by explaining why schizophrenia is best understood as a complex neurodevelopmental disorder with multiple contributing factors rather than having a single cause. Shorter summary

Scott Alexander critically examines pharmacogenomic testing for antidepressants, particularly the GeneSight test, expressing skepticism about its current effectiveness and validity. Longer summary

Scott Alexander critically examines the field of pharmacogenomics for antidepressants, particularly focusing on the GeneSight test. He reviews the scientific evidence, discusses potential flaws in studies, and expresses skepticism about the current state and effectiveness of such testing. The post delves into the complexities of antidepressant metabolism, the challenges of predicting drug response, and the limitations of current genetic testing approaches. Shorter summary

A links roundup examining various scientific studies, social developments, and historical findings, with a particular focus on recent research about confounding variables and replication issues in science. Longer summary

This is an extensive links post covering various scientific studies, news items, and interesting facts. Scott discusses several studies about confounding variables and replication in science, historical findings about ancient civilizations, new research on topics ranging from climate change to criminology, and various social and political developments. The post starts with methodological concerns in science, moves through various research findings and historical tidbits, and ends with news about ongoing projects and obituaries. The tone is analytical but casual, with Scott often adding his own commentary and pointing out interesting implications or contradictions. Shorter summary

Scott examines how rare but severe drug side effects often lead to underprescription compared to drugs with common but less severe side effects, potentially resulting in suboptimal patient care. Longer summary

This post discusses the issue of rare but severe side effects in psychiatric medications versus common but less severe side effects. Scott uses two main examples: nefazodone vs SSRIs for depression, and modafinil vs Adderall for stimulants. He argues that drugs with rare but spectacular side effects (like nefazodone and modafinil) are often underprescribed compared to drugs with more common but less severe side effects (like SSRIs and Adderall). The post explores the reasons for this, including doctors' risk aversion, lawsuit concerns, and media coverage of rare side effects. Scott suggests that this pattern may lead to suboptimal treatment choices for patients. Shorter summary

Scott Alexander critically examines the Institute of HeartMath, exposing a mix of misused science and pseudoscience in their 'heart coherence' claims and practices. Longer summary

Scott Alexander critiques the Institute of HeartMath, an organization promoting 'heart coherence' techniques. He examines their scientific claims, finding a mix of valid science taken out of context and pseudoscientific assertions. The post delves into the backgrounds of HeartMath's leaders, questioning their credentials and research. Scott then reveals HeartMath's more esoteric beliefs, including influencing DNA through intention and affecting global consciousness. He concludes that while some of HeartMath's relaxation techniques may be beneficial, their pseudoscientific claims and high-priced programs are concerning, especially given their influence in healthcare, military, and education sectors. Shorter summary

Scott Alexander critiques mass-produced medical recommendations, showing how they can oversimplify or misrepresent scientific evidence using vitamin D and niacin as examples. Longer summary

Scott Alexander critiques mass-produced medical recommendations, focusing on vitamin D and niacin supplements. He argues that popular sources like information graphics and websites often oversimplify or misrepresent the scientific evidence. Using vitamin D as an example, he shows how counting only positive studies can lead to misleading conclusions, as many larger studies and meta-analyses have found no benefit for cancer prevention or general health. He then discusses niacin, once thought beneficial but later found to be potentially harmful. Scott emphasizes the importance of considering all available evidence and being cautious about simplified recommendations. Shorter summary