'Follow the science': Popular trust in scientific experts during the coronavirus pandemic
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View abstract on PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.Public trust in scientists grew during the pandemic. This study reveals that perceptions of scientists
Area Of Science
- Public Health
- Political Science
- Sociology
Background
- The COVID-19 pandemic amplified the influence of scientific advisors in public health guidance.
- This increased visibility necessitates understanding public perceptions and trust in scientists.
- Existing research on trust in scientists is limited in systematically exploring various judgmental factors.
Purpose Of The Study
- To investigate how public trust in scientists is formed during the pandemic.
- To examine the influence of perceived scientist traits, behaviors, and decision-making roles on trust.
- To compare trust in scientists with trust in politicians to identify distinct or similar influencing factors.
Main Methods
- Utilized specially designed conjoint experiments.
- Conducted surveys on nationally representative samples in Britain and the United States.
- Analyzed data to assess the relative effects of different judgments on trust.
Main Results
- Perceptions of scientists' features, traits, behaviors, and roles significantly shape public trust.
- Trust in scientists is influenced by distinct considerations compared to trust in politicians.
- Conjoint experiments effectively measured the impact of various factors on trust.
Conclusions
- Public trust in scientists is contingent on multifaceted perceptions and evaluations.
- Distinguishing factors influencing trust in scientists versus politicians is crucial for effective science communication.
- The study provides valuable insights into public trust dynamics during health crises.
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