McBride: Behind the Myth

by Bill Nicol

ABC Enterprises, 1989 [First Edition], ISBN 0642129924, paperback

Very Good Condition, a little edge and shelf wear, a little rubbing and bumping to edges and corners, no inscriptions, uncreased spine (see photographs)

"In December 1987 Dr William McBride, AO, CBE, folk hero to thousands of Australians as the man who discovered the toxic effects of thalidomide, was publicly accused by Dr Norman Swan on the ABC's 'Science Show' of having committed scientific fraud.  Almost a year later the committee of inquiry set up by Dr McBride's own research institution, Foundation 41, found that he was indeed guilty of scientific fraud and lacking in scientific integrity.
Amid a storm of controversy, William McBride was forced to resign as medical director of Foundation 41, leaving his reputation damaged, the foundation severely shaken, and the general public divided and bewildered.  Was the whole affair just 'a fight over a few rabbits', as Dr McBride expressed it, prompted by jealousies within the scientific community?  Had it been whipped up by the media, intent on cutting down a tall poppy? Was it perhaps a sinister attempt by pharmaceutical companies who feared McBride's reputation and sought to discredit him?  Or did it go deeper, striking at the heart of scientific practice and regulation.?"