A recent Pew Research Center survey noted that since the start of the COVID-19 outbreak, Americans' trust in science and scientists has declined.

According to a late September poll of 8,800 Americans Science's "mostly positive" impact on society has dropped to 57%, down by eight percentage points since November 2021 and 16 percentage points before the COVID-19 pandemic began. Over one-third of respondents said science had a mixed impact on society, with 8% labeling it "mostly negative."

Americans' Declining Trust in Science is an Alarming Trend

US News & World Report reported that Republicans' declining trust in science is especially alarming. Compared to 14% in April 2020, over 4 out of 10 Republicans and Republican-leaning independents say they have little to no faith in scientists working in the public's best interests.

Meanwhile, Democrats' opinions have somewhat changed, although the fall is not as noticeable. The proportion of Democrats and independents leaning Democratic who highly trust scientists fell from 55% in November 2020 to 37% this past month. However, a sizable majority of Democrats continue to express some degree of trust in scientists.

The University of Illinois at Chicago's Dr. Katrine Wallace, an epidemiologist and anti-misinformation activist, pointed out an "information divide" made evident by the comprehensive data. Since 2019, there has been a consistent decline in public trust in science, which is a worrying trend, per a CNN report.

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Notably, comparing scientists and medical scientists to other social groups like corporate executives, religious leaders, journalists, and public officials, they are still regarded with comparatively high esteem, despite the drop in their popularity. These groups have seen drops in public approval in recent years, much like scientists.

Furthermore, lower scientific trust reflects political polarization in the United States, which spans across party lines. The historically low confidence in the federal government and Congress contributes to this rising discrepancy.

Many Still Believe US Should Maintain Its Lead in Science

Despite rising skepticism in science, a majority of Americans believe government support of research is necessary. According to Pew Research's media release, only 20% of Americans disagree with 78% who feel that the US government's scientific spending helps society. Republicans, Democrats, and many demographic and educational groups share this view.

Additionally, 52% of Americans believe the US must lead the world in science, while 37% think it's somewhat important. Since last year, their shares have essentially not moved.

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