Public Confidence in Science: Why it’s Declining and How to Elevate it
**Summary:** New research delves into the decline of public confidence in science, exploring why it has happened and what can be done to boost it. The study looks at the values that underpin science and how scientists can overcome biases to regain trust.
Summary: New research delves into the decline of public confidence in science, exploring why it has happened and what can be done to boost it. The study looks at the values that underpin science and how scientists can overcome biases to regain trust.
In America, science is held in high regard, with a majority of the public expressing confidence in scientists. However, over the past few years, this confidence has waned, particularly during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Strategic Council of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine has conducted research to understand the decline in public confidence in science. They highlight the need for trust to be earned and explore ways to rebuild trust in the scientific community.
Why the Decline in Confidence?
The study examines trends in public confidence in science over the past 20 years, revealing a consistent decline in trust. Lead author Arthur Lupia emphasizes the importance of understanding why trust in science is changing and what steps can be taken to restore it.
Highlights of the Study
According to the research, confidence in science remains high compared to other institutions. However, the public questions whether scientists align with their values and can overcome biases. While most people trust scientists' competence, honesty, and trustworthiness, there are concerns about biases influencing their work.
Scientist Values and Public Perception
The study also explores public attitudes toward scientists, revealing that many view scientists as competent and trustworthy but question whether they share their values. Perceptions of scientists' biases and ability to correct mistakes play a significant role in shaping public opinion.
Confidence and COVID-19 Vaccination Status
The research highlights the impact of public confidence in science on COVID-19 vaccination rates. Trust in health authorities was found to be a significant predictor of people's willingness to get vaccinated, underscoring the importance of building trust in scientific information.
Strategies to Enhance Confidence in Science
The researchers argue that raising public confidence in science should not be based on blind trust but on a commitment to transparency, critique, and self-correction. By upholding core scientific values and engaging with the public in a transparent manner, the scientific community can regain trust.
In conclusion, the study emphasizes the need for scientific organizations and researchers to uphold rigorous standards of conduct, communication, and correction to earn and maintain public confidence in science.
Source: Penn
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