Nature Challenges Science Trust Crisis Narrative as 56% in 32 Countries Say They Trust Scientists
Updated
Updated · Nature.com · Jul 1
Nature Challenges Science Trust Crisis Narrative as 56% in 32 Countries Say They Trust Scientists
2 articles · Updated · Nature.com · Jul 1
Summary
Nature says evidence does not support a global collapse in trust in science, framing the problem as uneven and politically polarized rather than a universal crisis.
A 2024 Ipsos survey of more than 23,000 people in 32 countries found 56% trusted scientists, just below medical doctors at 58% and far above politicians at 15%.
Trust is still slipping in some groups and topics: in the US it has fallen among Republicans, and vaccine hesitancy helped six countries lose measles elimination status this year.
Nature argues researchers need sharper measures of public attitudes, more testing of trust-building strategies, and greater public involvement in setting research priorities.
The journal says scientists can strengthen confidence by shedding elitist perceptions, engaging wider society and being open about uncertainty while showing trust in the public.