Seeing the value of experiential knowledge through COVID-19

Area of Science:

• Social Epistemology
• Medical Ethics
• Public Health Communication

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted complex social and epistemic challenges in science communication.
• Simplistic directives to 'follow the science' have proven insufficient and potentially counterproductive.
• A rigid adherence to scientism can alienate the public and foster distrust.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the negative consequences of uncritical 'follow the science' messaging.
• To explore how scientism can exacerbate social divisions and conspiracy theories.
• To propose a more inclusive approach to medical knowledge generation and dissemination.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of social and epistemic challenges in science communication.
• Critique of scientism and its societal impacts.
• Exploration of integrating diverse knowledge systems in medicine.

Main Results:

• Over-reliance on 'follow the science' rhetoric can alienate audiences and increase polarization.
• Hardened scientism risks fueling public skepticism and the spread of misinformation.
• Endorsing experiential knowledge alongside traditional evidence can enhance inclusivity.

Conclusions:

• Moving beyond simplistic scientific appeals is crucial for effective public health.
• Inclusive medical knowledge practices that value diverse evidence types are essential for building trust.
• Integrating patient and community experiences can strengthen the legitimacy and reach of medical science.