Stephen Lester

Dioxin is a chemical that is a toxic by-product of chlorine and other compounds. In the following viewpoint, Stephen Lester asserts that studies by chemical companies to prove that exposure to dioxin is not a health hazard are outright distortions of the truth. Dioxin has been conclusively linked to cancer and disfiguring skin diseases, Lester maintains, and is a pervasive toxic chemical. The theory advanced by chemical companies that dioxin is a naturally occurring toxic chemical is a preposterous attempt to blind the public to its dangers. Lester is the science director for the Center for Health, Environment, and Justice in Falls Church,Virginia.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. What were the major scientific flaws found in the Monsanto and BASF studies on dioxin and cancer, according to Lester?
2. What is...