In "Naked in Death" by J.D. Robb, a character expresses a deep skepticism about the motives behind pharmaceutical advancements. They suggest that while society has made significant progress in curing major diseases, there's an intentional oversight in addressing simpler ailments like the common cold. This implies that the medical industry benefits from keeping certain ailments around to ensure continual research and development, fueling their profits.

The quote highlights a perceived conspiracy where modern medicine focuses on complex conditions while leaving common infections unresolved. This raises questions about the true priorities of the healthcare system and challenges the notion of genuine progress when a basic illness remains uncured. It reflects a broader anxiety about trust in medical institutions and their priorities in the face of public health needs.