Physics & Astronomy James H. Dickerson II, Ph.D. (Jay) '94, Chief Scientific Officer Consumer Reports : "Using Science for Good"

We expect that the products we use every day will be safe, reliable, and effective. However, that does not always occur. A computer battery can unexpectedly catch fire, bedroom furniture can be unstable and topple, and food can be contaminated. Consumer Reports (CR) is committed to revealing the truth and raising the bar for safety and fairness, and empowering consumers with trusted information. Learn how CR uses science for good, applying its scientific findings for diverse audiences—from consumers to rule makers, industry to government, all with the goal of driving marketplace change that benefits everyone.
This presentation describes the underpinning endeavors of my organization, Consumer Reports. Thus, the topic will attempt to address the skepticism that many have that "ratings" or "reviews" of consumer products that Consumer Reports provides are no different from those often seen in forums like Amazon, YouTube, WireCutter, and other venues. My intent is to demonstrate that the robust science that we undertake at CR is far superior to that "used" in other venues.