Global Study Unveils High Levels of Public Trust in Science: What It Means for the Future

A new global study reveals that trust in scientists remains strong, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Conducted across 68 countries, the research shows that most people value scientists’ input in society and decision-making.

The study involved 71,922 participants worldwide, including 2,008 from the UK. This is the largest dataset on public trust in scientists since the pandemic began. The UK stands out, with a high level of trust in science compared to countries like Denmark, Germany, Sweden, and Belgium.

Trust in scientists tends to be greater among women, older individuals, and those with higher education levels. Interestingly, in North America and parts of Europe, people with conservative views show less trust in science. However, this isn’t a universal pattern, indicating that local political contexts may shape these perceptions.

Key Findings

• Widespread trust: Most respondents rated their trust in scientists at an average of 3.62 on a scale of 1 to 5. A large majority recognized scientists as qualified (78%), honest (57%), and caring about public well-being (56%).
• Desire for engagement: About 83% of participants believe scientists should communicate science to the public. While 23% feel scientists shouldn’t advocate for specific policies, a majority (52%) think they should be more involved in shaping public policy.

Global Trust Rankings

• Top countries: Egypt leads this trust survey, followed by India, Nigeria, Kenya, and Australia.
• Middle-ranking: The US is 12th, Canada 15th, and Sweden 20th.
• Lowest trust: Albania ranks last at 68th, followed by Kazakhstan, Bolivia, Russia, and Ethiopia.

The study, published in Nature Human Behaviours, was led by a team from Harvard University and included contributions from 241 researchers worldwide. Lead researcher Dr. Viktoria Cologna expressed that most people around the globe trust scientists and want them to be active in their communities.

Concerns Highlighted

Despite the overall trust, the study identified some worries. Only 42% of respondents feel that scientists listen to diverse views. Many also believe that scientific priorities don’t always align with their own concerns. Participants prioritized research on public health, energy issues, and poverty reduction over military technology.

Recommendations

The researchers emphasize the importance of feedback and open dialogue between scientists and the public. They highlight the need to engage more with conservative groups and address how scientific priorities are set to reflect community values.

Maintaining public trust in science is crucial, as even a small decline can significantly impact policy decisions. According to Dr. Eleonora Alabrese, these findings serve as an important reminder for scientists and policymakers working to preserve that trust.

For more in-depth insights, you can explore the full study [here](https://ilmt.co/PL/y57O).