Discover the reasons behind the varying levels of trust people have in different types of scientists. Find out how stereotypes, political ideology, and the COVID-19 pandemic influence public perception. Learn how scientists can enhance public support and appear more trustworthy.
Exploring Factors Behind Public Perception: Study Reveals Varied Trust in Scientists
( Credit to: Folia )
A recent study conducted by psychologists at the University of Amsterdam sheds light on the varying levels of trust people have in different types of scientists. Published in the journal PLOS ONE, the research aimed to uncover the reasons behind these differences in trust and explore the implications for scientific communication and public perception.
The study, led by PhD student Vukašin Gligorić, challenged the assumption that trust in science is homogeneous across all scientific disciplines. Instead, the researchers found that people do distinguish between different types of scientists when it comes to trust. To investigate this further, nearly 3,000 Americans were asked to rate their trust for 45 different types of scientists on a scale of 1 to 7.
Interestingly, the study revealed that epidemiologists, virologists, medical researchers, immunologists, environmental scientists, and data scientists scored high on trust. On the other hand, economists and political scientists received lower levels of trust from participants. Gligorić suggests that these findings may be influenced by stereotypes surrounding researchers and political ideology. Dissatisfaction with the current political and economic systems could contribute to the lower levels of trust in economists and political scientists.
Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Trust in Science
The study also examined the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on trust in science. The results varied across countries, with trust in scientists decreasing in some countries like the United States, France, and Italy, while increasing in others. Gligorić speculates that this discrepancy may be related to how governments incorporated scientific input into their decision-making processes during the pandemic.
Factors Influencing Trust in Scientists
To understand the predictors of trust, the researchers analyzed four traits: competence, assertiveness, morality, and warmth. The study found that morality was the most significant predictor of trust, followed by competence. Interestingly, morality played a more prominent role in shaping trust in scientists working on polarized topics such as climate change and COVID-19. In contrast, archaeologists, who work on less contentious subjects, were less influenced by morality as a predictor of trust.
When it comes to appearing moral, the study suggests that researchers who work in commercial companies or have conflicts of interest tend to be less trusted. On the other hand, researchers who actively engage in climate activism and speak out against polluting industries are seen as more moral and trustworthy. However, perceptions of morality also depend on the political affiliation of the participants, with conservatives exhibiting less confidence in researchers compared to progressives.
Enhancing Public Support and Trust in Science
Overall, the study provides valuable insights into trust in science and offers scientists tools to enhance public support and appear more trustworthy. Building trust in science is crucial for scientists to effectively tackle societal challenges. By understanding the factors that influence trust, researchers can work towards bridging the gap between the scientific community and the public, fostering a more informed and trusting relationship.
In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of recognizing the differences in trust among scientists and the factors that shape public perception. By addressing these factors and effectively communicating their work, scientists can cultivate greater trust and contribute to the resolution of complex societal issues.