Repairing trust in science requires a more inclusive understanding of innovation

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Source: Science Magazine

Original: https://www.science.org/doi/abs/10.1126/science.aee6955?af=R...

Published: 2026-01-22T08:00:00Z

An article published in the journal Science (Volume 391, Number 6783, January 2026) argues that restoring trust in science requires a more inclusive understanding of innovation. After the COVID-19 pandemic, Americans' trust in scientists has decreased compared to the previous period[1]. Lecturing people to "trust science" either kept the situation the same or made it worse[1]. Science communication should shift to frontline workers such as doctors, nurses and social workers instead of administrative leaders[1]. It is necessary to involve local leaders and communities in collaboration on projects in order to build lasting relationships[5]. Institutions should support students and postdocs as key persons and improve their support[1]. Scientists must discuss their findings openly with the public instead of dismissing questions[1].