Not too distant in the past, the Western world lived in dread of deadly infections. Since then, numerous nations have transformed from breeding grounds for diseases into considerably safer and healthier environments. Commencing in the mid-1800s, a consistent decline in fatalities attributed to infectious diseases ensued, reaching relatively minimal levels by the early 1900s. The narrative of this transformation encompasses elements such as famine, poverty, squalor, the loss of remedies, eugenic ideologies, the clash between individual freedoms and state authority, as well as protests and arrests stemming from vaccine refusal, among other factors.

In the contemporary era, prevailing beliefs attribute the extension of our lifespan and the prevention of mass fatalities solely to medical interventions. Yet, the veracity of this claim is brought into question. “Dissolving Illusions” meticulously presents facts and figures extracted from overlooked medical journals, books, newspapers, and diverse sources. Through groundbreaking graphs, the book compellingly illustrates that vaccines, antibiotics, and other medical interventions are not the primary drivers behind the increased lifespan and reduced mortality from infectious diseases.

If the medical profession could systematically misinterpret and disregard crucial historical information, it prompts the inquiry, “What other aspects are currently overlooked and misconstrued?” Understanding our history becomes paramount, not only for dispelling misconceptions but also to ensure that the darker chapters are not revisited in the future.

I talked to Roman the author about what led him to write his book and what he discovered on the way.

I really enjoyed this conversation and I hope you do too.