· · Single source ·Updated

Scientists question simple fixes for declining public trust in science

Presidents of two private foundations argue that restoring public trust in science requires more than better communication and demands a broader understanding of the issue.

Opinion: Restoring public trust in science doesn’t have a simple solution. That’s OK
File photo Opinion: Restoring public trust in science doesn’t have a simple solution. That’s OK Photo: STAT

Foundations examine trust challenges

Leaders of the Dana Foundation and The Green note concerns about polarization affecting public views. They observe that disagreements with scientific evidence do not always indicate a total loss of trust. These leaders suggest looking beyond recent headlines and survey statistics to understand the full picture.

Trust extends beyond science

The problem involves fragile trust in expertise, authority, and institutions generally. It is also about trustworthiness rather than just confidence in specific fields. The scientific community must develop a shared understanding that includes past and present contexts.

Moving beyond academia

Organizations typically operate within research and academia but need to go further. A broad approach considers factors outside these traditional arenas. This shift aims to address the chasm between suggested solutions and complex realities.

Reported by one outlet

Only one outlet has published this. Nothing here has been checked against a second report, so read it as that outlet's account and follow the link below for the original.

Reported by

1 independent outlet. Headline as published. Links open the original report.