Study: Trust in Scientists Post-Pandemic Remains High, but Public Wants More Engagement
The study, coordinated by Dr. Viktoria Cologna (Harvard University, ETH Zurich) and Dr. Niels G. Mede (University of Zurich), with contributions from researchers such as Dr. Eleonora Alabrese from the University of Bath, was published in the journal Nature Human Behaviour (preprint). This global effort involved 241 researchers across 169 institutions and aimed to assess the level of trust in scientists and societal expectations for their involvement in policymaking. Survey responses highlighted widespread trust in scientists, with significant regional and demographic variations. However, the findings also underscored some areas of concern, such as perceived misalignment between scientific priorities and public values
The report emphasizes the study’s status as a preprint, indicating that it is undergoing peer review to validate its findings.
Key takeaways:
- Widespread trust: Across 68 countries, the study finds that a majority of the public have relatively high trust in scientists (mean trust level = 3.62, on a scale from 1 = very low trust to 5 = very high trust). Majorities also perceive scientists to be qualified (78%), honest (57%), and concerned about people’s well-being (56%).
- Desire for scientists’ engagement: A large majority (83%) agree that scientists should communicate science with the public. Only a minority (23%) believe that scientists should not actively advocate for specific policies. 52% believe that scientists should be more involved in the policymaking process.
- Most Trusted: Egypt topped the list, followed by India, Nigeria, Kenya, and Australia.
- Middle of the Pack: The UK ranked 15th, three spots behind the US, but ahead of Canada (17th) and Sweden (20th).
- Least Trusted: At the bottom, Albania ranked 68th, followed by Kazakhstan (67th), Bolivia (66th), Russia (65th), and Ethiopia (64th).
The study concludes with both optimism and caution. While the global trust in scientists remains high, the findings emphasize the importance of aligning scientific efforts with public priorities and maintaining open channels of communication to foster trust further.
Dr. Eleonora Alabrese, University of Bath:
“The UK has a generally high level of trust in science, ranking above many European countries, including Denmark, Germany, Sweden, and Belgium. Trust in scientists is higher among women, older individuals, and those with more education. Interestingly, a conservative political orientation is linked to lower trust in science in North America and parts of Europe. However, this pattern does not hold globally, suggesting that the political leadership may influence such attitudes in different regions.”
Dr. Viktoria Cologna, Harvard University and ETH Zurich:
“Our results show that most people in most countries have relatively high trust in scientists and want them to play an active role in society and policymaking.”
Dr. Niels G. Mede, University of Zurich:
“The study is the most comprehensive post-pandemic snapshot of trust in scientists, societal expectations of their involvement in society and policymaking, and public views on research priorities.”
While the results highlight the enduring trust in scientists, they also reveal areas for improvement. Less than half of the global respondents believe that scientists adequately listen to others’ views, and there is a perceived disconnect between scientific priorities and public expectations, particularly in areas such as defense and military research. Addressing these gaps, the researchers note, could further enhance the public’s trust in science and its role in policymaking.
Topics: Bioeconomy & Society
