Documentary exposes pundits-for-hire

“Merchants of Doubt” looks at pundits-for-hire who present themselves as scientific authorities as they speak about topics like toxic chemicals, pharmaceuticals and climate change. This documentary will be shown as part of the Second Saturday Documentary Series at Niles Discovery Church, 36600 Niles Blvd., Fremont, on Saturday, November 14, at 1:30 p.m. The screening is free (donations accepted) and will be followed by a discussion.

Inspired by the acclaimed book by Naomi Oreskes and Erik Conway, “Merchants of Doubt” takes audiences on a satirically comedic, yet illuminating ride into the heart of conjuring American spin. Filmmaker Robert Kenner lifts the curtain on a secretive group of highly charismatic, silver-tongued pundits-for-hire who have the aim of spreading maximum confusion about well-studied public threats ranging from toxic chemicals to pharmaceuticals to climate change.

The Second Saturday Documentary Series is co-sponsored by Niles Discovery Church and the San Jose Peace & Justice Center.