The Strange Science of the Placebo Effect

The video explores the placebo effect, starting with its historical use in WWII by Henry Beecher. It explains what placebos are made of and how their effectiveness is influenced by factors like perception and presentation. The video also discusses the limitations of placebos, their role in drug testing, and the ethical considerations of using them in medicine. Despite their lack of active ingredients, placebos can cause real chemical changes in the body, highlighting the power of expectation in healing.

What are the limitations of placebos in medical treatment?

Discuss the implications of the growing placebo effect on drug testing.

Why is it considered unethical to prescribe placebos as real medicine?