“Throughout history, progress has not been driven by those who protect the status quo, but by those willing to challenge it—often at great personal cost.”
Frank de Vocht’s recent sarcastic dismissal of my work and concerns surrounding microwave and wireless radiation safety represents more than just an attack on me—it’s emblematic of a larger, systemic issue: the entrenched academics who guard outdated scientific paradigms to maintain a status quo that benefits neither science nor public health.
The fight for progress in the face of entrenched opposition isn’t new. From Galileo to Giordano Bruno, history is rife with examples of individuals who were ostracized—or worse—for daring to challenge deeply rooted beliefs. Today, we face a similar battle, not against theories of a flat Earth or a geocentric universe, but against the outdated frameworks, biased interpretations, and dismissive attitudes that dominate fields like electromagnetic radiation safety.
If we are serious about public health and scientific integrity, we must not only confront industry and regulatory inertia but also hold entrenched academics accountable, replacing stagnation with forward-thinking expertise grounded in current science.
The Problem with Entrenched Academics
Guardians of the Status Quo
Entrenched academics often cling to outdated theories or incomplete science for various reasons—be it professional ego, institutional politics, or an unwillingness to adapt to new evidence. Their positions of authority often allow them to stifle dissenting voices, dismiss emerging research, and perpetuate guidelines that no longer reflect the realities of modern science.
Examples of this resistance can be found throughout history:
- The church’s insistence on a geocentric universe, silencing Galileo until the evidence became undeniable.
- Early skeptics of germ theory, who ridiculed pioneers like Semmelweis for advocating handwashing.
- The persistence of lead pipes despite clear evidence of their toxicity—a public health crisis only addressed after significant harm had already occurred.
Today, the thermal-only framework of electromagnetic radiation safety is a modern parallel. Despite overwhelming evidence of non-thermal biological effects, entrenched academics continue to downplay risks, citing outdated standards that ignore oxidative stress, DNA damage, and neurological impacts.
The Danger of Dismissiveness
When Frank de Vocht sarcastically dismissed concerns about wireless safety and equated critics with conspiracy theorists, he exemplified the exact attitude that holds science back. Rather than engaging with new ideas or evidence, such dismissiveness:
- Silences Public Inquiry: Mockery discourages legitimate questions, eroding trust in academic and regulatory institutions.
- Perpetuates Outdated Standards: By dismissing dissent, entrenched academics reinforce flawed guidelines that fail to reflect current science.
- Blocks Progress: Dismissing concerns outright prevents the necessary collaboration to refine safety protocols and develop innovative solutions.
RF Safe: Speaking Out Against Stagnation
A Mission Rooted in Advocacy and Science
RF Safe was born out of a promise—to fight for answers after the tragic loss of my firstborn child, Angel Leigh Coates, and to protect future generations from preventable harm. Over 25 years, this mission has evolved into a platform for educating the public, challenging outdated guidelines, and advancing safer technologies.
But the battle is not just with industry or regulators; it’s with the entrenched academics who refuse to let go of flawed paradigms. These individuals wield their authority to block progress, dismiss valid concerns, and protect their reputations, even at the expense of public health.
Calling for Change
RF Safe isn’t just challenging the technology—we’re challenging the system. It’s time to:
- Replace the Gatekeepers: The same individuals who have shaped EMF safety guidelines for the past two decades should step aside for experts who are familiar with and open to current science.
- Promote Independent Research: Entrenched academics often rely on industry-funded studies that reinforce the status quo. We must prioritize independent, peer-reviewed research that considers both thermal and non-thermal effects.
- Encourage Scientific Accountability: The days of dismissing dissenting voices with sarcasm and ridicule must end. Open, respectful dialogue is the only way to advance understanding and public trust.
Why Entrenched Guidelines Are Dangerous
Thermal-Only Frameworks: A Relic of the Past
The current EMF safety guidelines, rooted in the thermal-only effects model, were established decades ago. They assume that if electromagnetic radiation doesn’t produce measurable heat, it doesn’t cause harm. This model completely ignores a growing body of evidence that suggests otherwise:
- Oxidative Stress: Linked to DNA damage, inflammation, and chronic health conditions.
- Hormonal Disruption: Evidence shows RF exposure can affect melatonin and other critical hormones.
- Neurological Effects: Studies indicate potential links to ADHD, memory impairment, and cognitive decline, particularly in children.
Ignoring Non-Thermal Effects
Studies like those from the National Toxicology Program (NTP) and the Ramazzini Institute have demonstrated clear biological effects at non-thermal levels. Yet entrenched academics and organizations like ICNIRP continue to dismiss these findings, insisting the risks are “unproven.”
This refusal to adapt harms public health and slows the adoption of safer technologies—like Li-Fi, which uses light instead of microwaves for wireless communication.
Progress Through Innovation: A Path Forward
Safer Technologies Are Possible
While entrenched academics cling to outdated frameworks, innovators are paving the way for safer, more sustainable solutions. My own work in light-based communication systems demonstrates how we can balance technological progress with public health:
- Li-Fi Technology: Uses photons for data transmission, avoiding the bioelectric disruptions associated with microwave radiation.
- Far-UVC Germicidal Applications: Combines data transmission with air and surface sterilization, offering dual benefits for connectivity and health.
- Sustainability: Light-based systems are energy-efficient and reduce the electromagnetic “smog” saturating our environment.
Learning from History
If we’ve learned anything from the failures of entrenched systems—be it lead pipes, tobacco, or asbestos—it’s that waiting too long to act on evidence leads to preventable harm. By embracing innovation and precautionary principles, we can avoid repeating those mistakes.
A Call for New Voices in Science and Policy
It’s time to replace the gatekeepers of stagnation with experts who value progress, transparency, and public health:
- Remove Bias: Entrenched academics and regulators with ties to outdated theories or industry interests must step aside.
- Update Guidelines: Safety standards should reflect the latest scientific evidence, including non-thermal effects.
- Promote Open Dialogue: Respectful debate, rather than sarcasm or ridicule, is essential for advancing science and earning public trust.
Speaking Out Is Our Duty
Throughout history, those who challenged entrenched ideas have faced ridicule, hostility, and even persecution. But it’s those voices—often dismissed as “radical” or “obsessed”—that ultimately drive progress. RF Safe is proud to be one of those voices, advocating not just for safer technologies but for a cultural shift in how we approach scientific inquiry and public health.
Frank de Vocht’s dismissive sarcasm reflects the very attitude that holds science back. But we won’t be silenced—not by academics, regulators, or industry players. The stakes are too high.
This isn’t just about technology; it’s about protecting the bioelectric harmony that sustains life itself. It’s about ensuring that future generations inherit a world where innovation serves humanity, not the other way around.
The time for change is now. The gatekeepers of the past must make way for the innovators of the future. And together, we can build a safer, smarter, and healthier world.