Scientists and researchers on Internet; how do you deal with family members/loved ones who tend to have strong opinions on scientific methodology and topics that they do not understand, often basing their opinions on the internet, rather than listening to someone who has had several years of training?

It’s so infuriating. And I teach stats but to them it’s not the right kind of stats. Because ether do t understand how science works. I couldn’t possibly know how to read a paper with the same methodology I teach in an adjacent field like nutrition.

I ask them if they know what a meta review is, then ask would they like to know. When they say no then I say why should I trust what they say? And it usually just breaks apart because ultimately they are trying to score points on me, not have a discussion.

Reductio ad absurdum one of their stated claims or an assumption.

Show they can’t possibly be correct due to some internal contradiction. Inconsistencies can be like a slap in the face.

Asking questions requiring them to explain their claim, rather than trying to teach them your position, will only lead to their ignorance’s exposure. People who don’t think they are ignorant are often not amenable to being persuaded or re-educated. When they fail to explain their position understandably, even to themselves, they’ll be much more humble and might be ready for some correction. It is more likely that you’ll just piss them off; but even that can bring some solace.

Once they realize they can’t be right they might be open to someone who is.

You’ve read about Thrasymachus?

I’m trying to train myself to stay quiet.

It’s getting easier.

My question as well thanks. 😭

Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha ha.