A worldwide survey covering 68 nations indicates that trust in scientists remains notably strong. A team of 241 researchers, spearheaded by the University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, undertook the most extensive post-pandemic examination of public trust in science, societal expectations, and perspectives on research priorities.
A recent study indicates that global trust in scientists is relatively high. This has been concluded by an international team of 241 researchers directed by Viktoria Cologna from ETH Zurich and Niels G. Mede from the University of Zurich (UZH). “Our findings suggest that the majority of people across numerous countries have a good level of trust in scientists,” states lead researcher Viktoria Cologna, adding that the public desires an active role for scientists in societal and political matters. The study found no indication of a so-called trust crisis in science, which is often discussed.
This research is part of the TISP Many Labs initiative, a collaborative study that surveyed 71,922 individuals across 68 nations, including many regions in the Global South that are often overlooked. For the first time since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic, the study offers a global and representative set of data regarding the populations and areas where researchers are seen as most credible, the level of public engagement expected from scientists, and whether scientific inquiries are focusing on pressing topics.
No evidence of a trust crisis in science
The results from the 68 countries show that a sizable portion of the population maintains a reasonably high level of trust in scientists (average trust rating = 3.62, on a scale from 1 = very low trust to 5 = very high trust). Most participants also consider scientists to be competent (78%), truthful (57%), and concerned about public welfare (56%).
Nonetheless, the findings bring forward some worrying aspects. Globally, less than half (42%) of the respondents feel that scientists consider the views of others. “Our data indicates that many people feel that the focus of scientific research does not always align with their personal priorities,” comments co-author Niels G. Mede. “We encourage scientists to take these insights seriously and find ways to be more open to public feedback and engage in dialogue.”
Division among population groups and variations between nations
The results echo earlier research that highlights significant variances between countries and demographic groups. Specifically, individuals with conservative political beliefs in Western nations often show lower trust in scientific authorities than their liberal counterparts. This indicates that attitudes towards science can become polarized based on political affiliations. However, in most cases, the correlation between political beliefs and trust in scientists was not evident.
Encouraging active participation of scientists
An overwhelming majority of participants advocate for a proactive role for science in societal and policy matters. Globally, 83% believe scientists should engage with the public about science, which signals a need for enhanced science communication efforts. In contrast, only 23% are against scientists actively pushing for particular policies, while 52% believe that scientists should be more involved in the policymaking arena.
Survey participants prioritized research aimed at improving public health, addressing energy challenges, and reducing poverty. Conversely, efforts to develop defense and military technologies were ranked lower. Participants specifically indicated that the focus on military and defense research outstrips their preferences, exposing a potential disconnect between community concerns and scientific priorities.
