How Can We Increase Trust in Science?

 

For decades, there has been a general mistrust in science and healthcare among the general American public. This trend has been highlighted especially regarding the coronavirus pandemic, as many Americans refuse to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, acknowledge the reality of the virus, or listen to recommendations from the CDC and healthcare providers. But why do Americans have trust issues with scientists and the healthcare system?

The answer is not simple but lies in the idea that the average American feels that science has failed them. Science is messy and convoluted. It’s not simple enough to say that the public should “just trust” scientists because they “know better.” Trust, like in any relationship, must be earned. Unfortunately, not everyone has access to an education and cannot easily seek out scientific information and understand it. This is something most scientists know, but do not do anything about. Some scientists and healthcare providers tend to use technical terms, as well as undervalue the opinions of non-scientists. To better gain the public’s trust, scientists must appeal to their concerns and their level of understanding. Just like it’s not fair to expect a fish to walk on land, it’s not fair to expect someone with no science education to understand and trust science. This is not to say that they are incompetent, but rather that they were never given the tools to understand mechanisms, appraise literature, or know the best treatment recommendations for their ailments. There must be an emphasis on health literacy and communication skills within the realm of science.

It is also not fair to disregard a person’s concerns, especially if they have a completely different background than the concerned person. Just because we listen, does not mean that we will understand them, but we will have a better idea of where the mistrust is coming from. It is human nature to desire a feeling of being heard and to have a sense of belonging. Denying a person’s experiences because we have not experienced them ourselves only creates division. Science is not immune to racism, discrimination, or prejudice. It is important that healthcare providers and other scientists go out of their way to find ways to combat these toxic mindsets and behaviors that are carried into the practice. This begins by listening to those whose needs are being met—those who are oppressed. By building these habits, people will begin to feel that the field of science cares to include them.

Science is and should be for everybody. We must find ways to assess our implicit biases towards non-scientist and those in marginalized communities to improve the services and utilize the discoveries we provide for others. It is easier said than done, but genuine empathy and effective communication are the keys to building trust with others. Hopefully one day, we can see that although it was a challenge, it allowed us to make a lasting impact on the public.

By Anna Eursiriwan

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