Scientific misinformation is a subtype of misinformation, where the material presented is “misleading or deceptive relative to the best available scientific evidence”.
Left unchecked, exposure to scientific misinformation can have dramatic consequences; when people accept and absorb misinformation, these beliefs can become internalized and affect their ability to make informed decisions regarding their health, response to natural disasters, and more. During the COVID-19 pandemic, for instance, misinformation about vaccines was found to affect vaccination rates. One 2023 study estimates that vaccination could have prevented at least 232,000 deaths among adults who were not vaccinated. To combat scientific misinformation, the public must have access to reliable, credible, and trusted sources of information on scientific topics.
Technology Networks asked a variety of experts the same question to find out more about the role that academics and leaders in the scientific industry can play in combating scientific misinformation: “In an era of rapid information flow and rising misinformation, what actions can science professionals take to foster public trust and enhance communication of research findings?” Yee Lian Chew, PhD. Professor emeritus at Flinders University. “To build trust, it is important to make the effort to speak directly to the public about research—not just the findings but the entire “journey.” It can take practice to learn how to talk about science to people who are not scientists, but it is worth it, and it is the duty of all researchers.”
Faraz A Choudhury. CEO of Immuto Scientific and co-founder. “To maintain public trust in science, proactive engagement with evidence-based responses to misinformation and consistent, transparent communication are essential. Clarity and transparency enhance credibility. Summarize the research question, methods, findings, and uncertainties in simple language, and whenever possible, make underlying protocols, code, and data accessible. PhD. Jo Varshney CEO and founder, VeriSIM Life.
“Science professionals must actively foster public trust in today’s world of constant information exchange and growing misinformation. Communication that is accessible, transparent, and clear is essential. Research findings should be shared in ways that nonexperts can understand without losing the integrity or nuance of the science.
“Openly discussing methods, limitations, and data demonstrates accountability and honesty, qualities that enhance credibility. To ensure that accurate information reaches a variety of audiences, scientists should also engage across multiple platforms, including partnerships with journalists and educators, public forums, and social media. Equally important is responsiveness. Listening to public concerns, answering questions, and correcting misconceptions quickly reinforces the idea that the scientific community is not only rigorous but also approachable and responsible. By communicating with clarity and empathy, we turn science into something people can trust, relate to, and believe in.”
Sarah Walmsley, PhD. University of Edinburgh respiratory medicine professor. “I think that evidence is key. Scientists have a duty to present the facts that they obtain from their research in an open and transparent way. In order to assist people in making decisions based on information, it is essential that public information be shared. Adrien Rennesson. Co-founder & CEO, Syntopia.
“Science is increasingly becoming a cultural battleground, especially in the United States, which weakens its role in public debate and complicates the adoption of evidence-based policies. Yet, there are reasons for optimism. The scientific consensus remains strong within the research community, and institutions continue to deliver major breakthroughs. There is also a growing awareness of the importance of scientific education, transparency, and open dialogue with society.
“In fact, this climate of distrust can serve as a wake-up call, pushing scientists to rethink how they communicate and engage with the public. Science is not only facing a scientific challenge, but also a cultural, educational, and democratic one. By addressing these dimensions—through better education, greater transparency, and more active dialogue—the scientific community can strengthen its legitimacy and rebuild public trust.”
Lindsey Stigers, PE. Senior director of design operations, CRB.
The scientific community must continue to be above reproach and open to criticism. I think showing up in our local communities in real, undisputable ways is also going to be a necessary part of building trust. This can be in professional scientific capacities or otherwise.
“We need to normalize science professionals reserving the rights to learn more as time progresses, as other information is available, and as methods improve. This may look like having less solid answers or highlighting more of the risks or gaps in understanding as breakthroughs are presented.”
Sunitha Venkat. Vice-president of data services and Insights, Conexus Solutions.
“Science professionals can increase trust by prioritizing communication that is clear, open, and accessible. Demystifying difficult findings is made easier by openly sharing methodologies, data, and limitations. Engaging proactively with the public through multiple channels, such as social media, public talks, and educational content, can counter misinformation and highlight the real-world impact of research. Collaborating with communicators and journalists ensures that scientific messages are accurate, understandable, and compelling, strengthening public confidence in science.”
