From the editor - Editorial

New Life Journal, Oct-Nov, 2002 by Erin Everett

When I've told people that the focus of this issue was going to be "Modern Medicine," the usual reaction was one of confusion. "What does that mean?" people asked me. "Is New Life Journal covering conventional medicine?"

The inspiration for this issue's focus came from a friend of mine who suggested I "expose the real witch doctors ... lousy and phony alternative medicine providers." My reaction to this was strong and immediate. I came back with a barrage of information and facts, not defending alternative medicine, but simply listing the many failures of conventional medicine in its intended goal of healing people and "doing no harm."

We put a survey in our last issue giving readers an opportunity to ask questions about conventional medicine and natural medicine. The overwhelming response from our readers was clear. "Why are death rates from pharmaceuticals so high, yet they are never FDA banned?" "Why do so many conventional doctors know so little about nutrition?" Readers asked us to print more information about pharmaceuticals, nutrition, cancer therapies, biotech medicines, vaccinations, mercury amalgam fillings ... and the list goes on. You asked for it! This issue is part of our response to you.

As with any position of authority, there exist both conventional and complementary doctors, nurses, healers who abuse their power and exploit the public's trust to make `money. To me, the dishonesty or well-intended mistakes of certain individuals on "both sides of the fence" is not the issue. This edition of New Life Journal covers some big issues in modern medicine, and highlights some areas we're stamping "Needs Improvement" in conventional medicine and government policy ("Conventional Medicine, Homeopathy, & Science," p. 3; "The Vaccination Debate Continues," p. 4; and "Why EPA's Headquarters Professionals' Union Opposes Fluoridation," p. 8.) It also showcases ways that complementary and conventional medicine can work together ("An Update on Cancer," p. 6). In addition, Dr. Lisa Lichtig explores what's really missing from modern medicine in "The Spirit of Healing," p.7.

You can enjoy even more article content exclusive to our website at newlifejournal.com. Enjoy our take on Modern Medicine, and let us know what you think!

Erin Everett, NLJ Editor