The Fluoride Wars (PDF)

A lively account of fluoridation and its discontents

Since its first implementation in Grand Rapids, Michigan, in
1945, public drinking water fluoridation and its attendant
conflicts, controversies, and conspiracy theories serve as an
object lesson in American science, public health, and policymaking.
In addition to the arguments on the issue still raging today, the
tale of fluoridation and its discontents also resonates with such
present concerns as genetically modified foods, global warming
response, nuclear power, and environmental regulation.

Offering the best current thinking on the issue, The Fluoride
Wars presents a witty and detailed social history of the
fluoridation debate in America, illuminating the intersection of
science and politics in our recent past. This reader-friendly
assessment explores the pro- and anti-fluoridation movements, key
players, and important events. Full of amusing and vivid anecdotes
and examples, this accessible recounting includes:

* A careful and non-condescending look at the hard science,
popular science, pseudo-science, and junk science involved

* A look at fluoride issues including dosage, cost, financial and
funding interests, fluorosis, and problems of risk-cost-benefit
analysis

* The back-and-forth drama between pro- and anti-fluoridation
factions, with all its claims, counterclaims, insults, acrimony,
and lawsuits

* Case studies of various cities and their experiences with
municipal water fluoridation initiatives

* Fluorophobia and popular conspiracy theories involving
fluoride

* The colorful characters in the debate including activists,
scientists, magicians, and politicians

A richly and considerately told tale of American science and
public life, The Fluoride Wars offers an engrossing history to both
interested general readers and specialists in public health,
dentistry, policymaking, and related fields.