Global Study Finds Public Confidence in Scientists Remains High

An extensive new survey across 68 nations reveals high public confidence in scientists, despite polarisation and some reported misaligned priorities.

• Largest post-pandemic study indicates consistently moderate to high trust in scientists in 68 countries
• Political views influence trust levels in some regions, though widespread polarisation is not apparent
• Public calls for greater scientific engagement, especially in health, energy and poverty research

The results of an extensive post-pandemic survey suggest that trust in scientists worldwide remains moderately high, challenging any notion of a sweeping crisis of confidence. Conducted by a team of 241 researchers led by the University of Zurich and ETH Zurich, this global study gathered responses from 71,922 individuals across 68 countries, including several often under-researched nations in the Global South. While the findings underscore a generally positive public perception of scientists, they also shed light on areas where expectations and research priorities may be misaligned.

Moderate Trust Amid Diverse Views

In reporting their insights, principal investigator Viktoria Cologna of ETH Zurich notes: “Our results show that most people in most countries have a relatively high level of trust in scientists,” adding that respondents “want them to play an active role in society and politics.” According to the survey, the average global trust score stands at 3.62 on a five-point scale (1 representing very low trust, 5 representing very high). A majority of participants consider scientists qualified (78%), honest (57%) and caring about people’s well-being (56%).

However, fewer than half of those surveyed (42%) believe scientists listen sufficiently to public concerns. Co-author Niels G. Mede of the University of Zurich emphasises the importance of engaging with people’s views, stating: “We recommend that scientists take these results seriously and find ways to be more receptive to feedback and open to dialogue with the public.”

The picture of trust varies across countries, with some Western nations showing a correlation between political orientation and trust in scientists. Right-leaning individuals in these regions tend to exhibit lower levels of trust compared to those with left-leaning views. Nonetheless, the research found no universal pattern of polarisation tied to political beliefs worldwide. Many populations appear to navigate scientific issues outside of a strictly partisan lens, highlighting the complex tapestry of views shaping people’s confidence in research.

Alignment with Societal Priorities

Beyond trust, the survey explored public attitudes towards the role of science in shaping policy and tackling global challenges. Overall, 83% of respondents want scientists to engage more actively with the public and share their research findings broadly. Over half (52%) support a greater involvement of scientists in policymaking. These figures suggest a strong appetite for collaborative and communicative research processes.

The study also assessed people’s perceptions of whether science is focusing on the issues they consider most pressing. Participants gave highest priority to public health research, energy solutions and poverty reduction efforts. In contrast, they attached low priority to defence and military technology, even though they felt that such areas currently receive more scientific attention than is warranted. According to the researchers, these findings underscore a potential disconnect between scientific agendas and public concerns in some fields.

For the scientific community, these insights may encourage a reevaluation of how research questions are posed and addressed. Greater transparency and better communication could help reinforce the trust that remains relatively strong, while also directing future projects in directions more aligned with societal needs. Although the study identifies gaps in communication and alignment, it paints a reassuring picture of continued public confidence in science, demonstrating a willingness among citizens to see scientists actively shaping policy and social discourse.

By providing a nuanced look at international perspectives, the results offer food for thought for researchers who aim to engage effectively with diverse communities. The call for increased dialogue and responsiveness does not diminish the fact that, for most people worldwide, scientific expertise is still valued. Instead, it points to an opportunity: scientists have a chance to build on the trust that exists by listening to the public’s priorities, integrating their concerns into research goals, and forging pathways that connect innovation more directly to shared societal aims.