Magnetic Appeal

Joyce (sociology, College of William and Mary) has explored her subject for seven years and offers a concise, thought-provoking analysis of the use of magnetic resonance imaging in American health care. She challenges pervasive beliefs (wishful thinking?) held by the public and the medical establishment about the efficacy of imaging in general, and MRIs specifically, in terms of better outcomes. The appeal of "seeing" is understandable, but the investment in imaging is huge and could be a misuse of resources and a form of (self) deception.