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C-621/15 - W And Others v Sanofi Pasteur: An Example of Judicial Distortion and Indifference to Science

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Abstract

This case commentary examines the CJEU’s recent decision in C-621/15 W and Others v Sanofi Pasteur MSD SNC [2017] ECR I. This commentary critically examines the decision through the lens of the cultural conflict between law and science. We argue that the CJEU’s decision reflects both a distortion of scientific knowledge and an improper indifference to the legitimate methods by which scientific knowledge is generated in the context of vaccines. These judicial approaches may, the authors argue, inadvertently fuel the vaccine scepticism that is growing across the developed world, and in particular in Europe.

Acceptance Date Oct 5, 2017
Publication Date Nov 8, 2017
Publicly Available Date Mar 29, 2024
Journal Medical Law Review
Print ISSN 0967-0742
Publisher Oxford University Press
Pages 134-145
DOI https://doi.org/10.1093/medlaw/fwx049
Keywords CJEU, Hepatitis B, Multiple Sclerosis, products liability, tort, vaccines
Publisher URL http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/medlaw/fwx049

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