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It does seem entirely different. In one case we're removing a toxin, something that doesn't need to be in water at all. In the other case we're adding something
by ultramancool 10y ago
It does seem entirely different. In one case we're removing a toxin, something that doesn't need to be in water at all. In the other case we're adding something that isn't normally in the water in order to benefit a few people. We do this with fluoride in many places already, but I think this takes it to a far different level by affecting your brain chemistry.
You're giving many people who really don't need it a mood stabilizer, if it's enough to affect those who are at risk of suicide, it's surely still having an influence in the minds of those who don't need it. Why should the entire population have this alteration performed when only a few will benefit. Seems better to go and seek out those few. Personally I'd take the increased suicide risk.
Point is, people will disagree about this, the optimal solution is to just let people who want it add it or take it as a supplement in their own homes.
- Retric 10y agoLithium might be an essential micronutrient, so it may simply be treating a common problem. Much like how milk is fortified with Vitamin D. PS: There is little (ed: zero) evidence that Lithium is and the human body puts effort into removing it. But, it's also common in the environment and may have positive impacts at low levels so it's more debatable than you might think.
- ultramancool 10y agoPerhaps, but if it's having a mental effect of notable size it still causes me concern. If you're happy with your current behaviors I don't see why you'd want it. Wouldn't it be better for individuals to just opt to take it themselves, encourage usage of those already existing environmental sources, etc?
- lawless123 10y agoone of the signs of depression is poor self maintenance, people get into a rut where they stop showering, cleaning etc. They wont always seek help.
- ucaetano 10y agoMy close experience with depression (not myself) is that it can takes years for someone to accept the thought of being depressed, and even more time to seek help. Sadly, there's too much prejudice and taboo over mental health in our society. People treat it as a badge of shame, not a disease.
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- tunap 10y agoIodine is added to table salt for the same effect. Although I am no fan of too many additives, I do approve this practice. I wonder if it would be feasible to institute today... https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iodised_salt https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iodised_salt
- ultramancool 10y agoIodised salt is easy to opt out of though, many salts come without it still. Your municipal tap water is much harder to opt out of. Which is why I'd suggest you simply allow people to add this themselves if they'd like.