Global Survey Reveals What 68 Countries Think About Science

A groundbreaking international study involving over 71,000 participants from 68 countries reveals widespread public trust in scientists. The research also underscores a strong desire for scientists to take on a larger role in policymaking and societal issues. Despite regional variations, the findings emphasize global confidence in science and its potential to shape public policy.

Broad Trust and Engagement

Conducted by a global consortium led by Harvard University, the study highlights high trust levels in scientists and a shared belief in their capacity to contribute to society. Most respondents supported greater involvement of scientists in policymaking, with 83% agreeing they should actively communicate science to the public.

Published on January 20 in Nature Human Behaviour, the research was spearheaded by TISP, a Harvard-based consortium directed by Dr. Viktoria Cologna (Harvard University and ETH Zurich) and Dr. Niels G. Mede (University of Zurich). A team of 241 researchers from 169 institutions, including the University of Bath, contributed to the study, which represents the most comprehensive post-pandemic analysis of public trust in science.

Key Findings

1. Global Trust: Across all countries, the average trust level in scientists was high (mean = 3.62 on a 5-point scale). Respondents described scientists as qualified (78%), honest (57%), and concerned about public well-being (56%).
2. Support for Involvement: A majority (52%) believed scientists should play a more active role in policymaking, while 23% preferred they avoid advocating for specific policies.
3. Trust Rankings:
   • Top-ranked: Egypt, India, Nigeria, Kenya, and Australia.
   • Middle: The UK ranked 15th, ahead of Canada (17th) and Sweden (20th), but behind the US (12th).
   • Bottom-ranked: Albania, Kazakhstan, Bolivia, Russia, and Ethiopia.

Regional Insights

Dr. Eleonora Alabrese from the University of Bath, who analyzed UK responses, noted that trust in scientists was higher among women, older individuals, and those with more education. In North America and Europe, conservative political orientation correlated with lower trust in science, a pattern not observed globally.

Dr. Viktoria Cologna remarked, “Most people globally trust scientists and want them to actively engage in societal and policy matters.” Dr. Niels G. Mede added, “This study provides a comprehensive snapshot of public trust in science and its evolving role in society post-pandemic.”

Challenges and Public Priorities

While trust remains high, only 42% of respondents felt scientists adequately consider public views. Additionally, participants perceived a misalignment between scientific priorities and societal needs. Public health, energy solutions, and poverty reduction ranked as top research priorities, while defense and military technology received the lowest support.

Recommendations

The consortium urges scientists to:

• Strengthen public engagement through dialogue and feedback.
• Address gaps in trust, particularly among conservative groups in Western nations.
• Realign research priorities to better reflect public values.

Dr. Alabrese warned, “Even minor declines in trust could affect the use of scientific evidence in policymaking. Maintaining and building this trust is crucial for science’s societal impact.”

Read Original Article: Scitechdaily

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