New Global Research Unveils Surprising Public Trust in Science: What It Means for Our Future

Many people worry that trust in science is fading, especially with all the misinformation being spread by some influencers and podcasters. But an international study from researchers at Harvard and the University of Zurich tells a different story. They surveyed nearly 72,000 people across 68 countries and found that most still have a strong confidence in scientists. In fact, many want scientists to play a bigger role in shaping policies.

The study, published in Nature Human Behaviors, showed that participants rated their trust in scientists at an average of 3.62 out of 5. A large number—78%—view scientists as qualified, while 57% think they are honest. Additionally, 83% of those surveyed believe scientists should share their knowledge with the public, and 52% support more scientific input in policy decisions.

The findings revealed interesting insights about trust levels in different countries. For example, Egypt tops the list, followed closely by India, Nigeria, Kenya, and Australia. In contrast, the U.S. ranks 12th and the U.K. 15th. Albania, Kazakhstan, Bolivia, Russia, and Ethiopia are at the bottom. Countries with lower trust often struggle with fewer resources for research and education, which can impact public perception of science.

Dr. Eleonora Alabrese from the University of Bath, who contributed to the U.K. sample, noted that trust varies by demographics. Women, older adults, and those with higher education tend to trust scientists more. Political leaning also plays a role, especially in North America and parts of Europe, where conservative views may lead to lower trust in science.

Despite the overall high levels of trust, many participants feel that scientists do not always listen enough to public concerns. About 42% of respondents believe that scientists should pay more attention to diverse viewpoints. They expressed a particular interest in research that improves public health, addresses energy issues, and helps reduce poverty.

Overall, this study provides a comprehensive look at how people view scientists and their work post-pandemic. It highlights the need for scientists to communicate more openly with the public and consider their values when setting research priorities. Maintaining trust in science is crucial, especially as even a slight dip in confidence can impact how scientific evidence is used in policymaking.

For more details, you can check out the full study in Nature Human Behaviors.

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