People still trust scientists – study
Public trust in scientists is still high despite the rising popularity of anti-science politicians.
That’s according to a survey of almost 72,000 people in 68 countries, which found no evidence of the oft-repeated claim of a crisis of trust in scientists. In fact, most participants (52%) believed that scientists should be more involved in policymaking.
Across 68 countries, the study recorded a relatively high level of trust in scientists, with a mean trust level of 3.62 (1 being very low and 5 being very high).
“The study is the most comprehensive post-pandemic snapshot of trust in scientists, societal expectations of their involvement in society,” said study co-lead Dr Niels Mede of the University of Zurich, Switzerland.
Dr Reynolds, a senior lecturer at Aston University School of Psychology, England, said: “When we face great challenges, such as threats to public health or energy crises, the public recognise the importance that scientists can play and want us involved.”