Comment · Fri, December 2, 2016 · Ceretropic & Nootropics Depot
Moderators: Why is flair limited to distributors? Could we add flair based on our qualifications (i.e., PhD, PharmD, graduate student, nutritionist, etc.)?
Original post in this thread
tuckerrrr · 92 points
Knowing if what we are reading is coming from a trained professional is certainly worth noting when considering supplementation.
What they were answering
TheSmileyCactus · 5 points
I think the nature of nootropics and the controversy that surrounds them would make this a pretty big problem. A doctor recommending that you shouldn't take a substance because it's "too risky" or mentioning that "we don't know the long term consequences" without actually researching it would probably pollute a lot of people's opinions. I think it's fine the way it is. If someone misinterprets something and there is an argument, all parties involved are allowed to mention their qualifications.
One thing that kind of sucks is that you are one of the only people that people on this sub know by name. I think a lot of people only trust your opinions/input and a lot of times people treat you as the ultimate authority. It would be nice to know of a few more people who are knowledgeable and passionate about nootropics/supplements.
u/MisterYouAreSoDumb · Ceretropic & Nootropics Depot
There is also the issue of legality with doctors giving recommendations in comments. If MDs had their title next to their names, they would have more legal implications about things they can and cannot say. So that would mean there is very little reason for anyone that's an MD to actually get flair next to their name. It would only be downsides for them from a legal perspective. Anonymity allows for more freedom in online discussions. Also, as you said, anyone can chime in with their qualifications in a specific instance, if they see fit. We are not going to verify it, but I don't see that being a big issue in most cases.
I agree on the second part. I do not want people to think of me as an ultimate authority, which is why I try and steer people away from me recommending stacks as much as I can. I would prefer to just talk about the science behind things, and leave the recommendations out of it. I just get soooo many questions every day. Sometimes I feel like a dick not helping out. I really wish there were more people that stuck around as much as I do, and added other sides to discussions and situations. I am torn on exactly what my role should be in a lot of cases.