"Doctor, I have an ear ache." 2000 BC - "Here, eat this root." 1000 BC - "That root is superstition, say this prayer." 1850 AD - "That prayer is superstition, drink this potion." 1940 AD - "That potion is snake oil, swallow this pill." 1985 AD - "That pill is ineffective, take this antibiotic." 2000 AD - "That antibiotic is artificial. Here, eat this root!"