Global trust in science soars after pandemic, but citizens call for changing priorities

Largest post-pandemic survey finds widespread support for scientific expertise, while also identifying key areas for improvement

Scientists remain highly trusted globally, according to the most comprehensive study of public attitudes toward science since the COVID-19 pandemic. The study, published in the journal Nature Human Behavior, challenges popular narratives about declining trust in scientific expertise while identifying specific areas where the scientific community can better meet public expectations.

The landmark study surveyed 71,922 people in 68 countries, representing 79% of the global population, and found that people have consistently positive attitudes toward scientists, with a global trust score of 3.62 out of 5. The study was conducted by an international consortium of 241 researchers from 179 institutions around the world, led by Viktoria Cologna, Ph.D., of Harvard University and ETH Zurich, and Niels G. Mede, Ph.D., of the University of Zurich.

Public confidence in scientific expertise

Research shows that 78% of respondents believe scientists are qualified to conduct high-impact research, 57% believe they are honest, and 56% believe scientists care about public welfare. “Our results show that most people in most countries have relatively high trust in scientists and want them to play an active role in society and policy development,” Dr. Colonia said.

geographical and political differences

Levels of trust vary significantly across regions and political lines. Egypt tops the global list, followed by India, Nigeria, Kenya and Australia. The UK ranks 15th, ahead of many European countries but behind the US. At the lower end of the spectrum, Albania, Kazakhstan, Bolivia, Russia and Ethiopia had the lowest levels of trust.

In Western countries, political leanings become an important factor, with conservatives generally showing lower trust in scientists. However, this pattern does not hold true globally, suggesting that local political leadership may play a crucial role in shaping scientific attitudes.

communication and participation

The study identified strong public demand for scientific engagement, with 83% of respondents agreeing that scientists should communicate with the public. Only 23% opposed scientists actively advocating for specific policies, while 52% supported increased scientific participation in policy development.

However, the research also revealed a significant communication gap: less than half of respondents (42%) believe scientists pay attention to the perspectives of others, highlighting a key area for improving public engagement with science.

Research priorities and public expectations

The survey found significant differences between public priorities and perceived areas of scientific focus. Respondents strongly supported research aimed at:

• improve public health
• Solving energy problems
• reduce poverty

Many participants expressed concern that current scientific priorities are not sufficiently aligned with these preferences. Of particular note, respondents felt that defense and military technology research received too much emphasis compared to their desired priorities.

Demographic patterns

The study found higher levels of trust among several demographic groups:

• Women show greater trust than men
• Older people show greater confidence in scientists
• Urban residents show higher levels of trust than rural residents
• Higher income is associated with higher trust
• More educated people show greater trust in scientific expertise

Impact on science policy

While the overall findings paint a positive picture of public trust in science, the researchers stress that the level of distrust even among a minority can seriously affect the consideration of scientific evidence in decision-making. Previous research has shown that a minority of just 10% is enough to influence majority opinion, while a 25% threshold can completely overturn majority opinion.

go ahead

The researchers recommend several key actions for the scientific community:

• Increase transparency of funding sources and data
• Increase receptivity to public feedback
• Have more genuine conversations with various social actors
• Better align research priorities with issues of public concern
• Addressing political polarization around science in Western countries

“While trust in science is generally high, these findings point to key areas where the scientific community needs development,” said Dr Eleonora Arabres, an economist at the University of Bath. The challenge now, researchers say, is to maintain that trust while being more responsive to public priorities and concerns.

The study, which collected data between November 2022 and August 2023, represents the most comprehensive assessment of public attitudes toward science in the post-pandemic era. Its findings provide important insights for scientists, policymakers and institutions working to maintain and strengthen the relationship between scientific expertise and society.