Why are some people so vehemently (and aggressively) opposed to soothers?

I agree with other other posters. My daughter is fed and has no problem with nipple confusion with the pacifier, neither did my son. I think my pediatrician said it best...."A baby can suck on a pacifier all day long and know nothing is coming out of it". It's a baby's natural instinct to suck, ALL babies. As long as baby's needs are being met first, I agree, give them the pacifier. There are times when I have TRIED everything with my daughter, even nursing her and all she wants is to suck (with nothing coming out). As soon as I give her the pacifier she's fine. They are doing new studies that show pacifiers are helping decrease the risk of SIDS and are actually promoting them now until age 1. Yes, it can delay speech and cause dental problems.... if it's in their mouth 24 hours a day! I don't know any parent that lets their children use it that long. I only offer it when all else fells. Don't worry about what other's say and go with what your heart tells you works for you and your family!