(Mis)Trust in Science – roots, mechanism, consequences, and remedies

• Applicant: Professorin Dr. Maja Adena, since 10/2025
• Subject Area: Economic Policy, Applied Economics
• Term: since 2025
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 567707638

The research grant proposal delves deeply into the intricate dynamics of trust in science, emphasizing its pivotal role, particularly in times of crisis and societal challenges. It highlights how events like the COVID-19 pandemic and the ongoing discourse around climate change underscore the critical need for trust in scientific institutions and findings. In the wake of the pandemic, we witnessed how varying levels of trust in scientists directly influenced public adherence to health guidelines. Those with high trust were more likely to follow recommended measures, while those with low trust gravitated towards unproven "miracle cures." Similarly, skepticism surrounding climate change has hindered progress towards environmental goals, revealing the profound impact of trust—or lack thereof—on societal outcomes. Importantly, the proposal notes a concerning trend: a decline in trust in science, particularly in the United States. This decline, however, is not fully understood, prompting the need for comprehensive research to unpack its underlying causes and consequences. Several key research questions are posed: To what extent does trust in science influence information processing and decision-making? How can trust in science be improved? Does trust vary across scientific fields, and how does this impact funding priorities? How effective are researchers and journalists in communicating scientific findings, and how does communication quality depend on incentives? Can interventions aimed at improving scientific literacy enhance science communication quality? The proposal encompasses three work packages: WP1 focuses on understanding the public's trust in science and how procedural aspects of research influence it, including transparency and correct scientific practices. WP2 investigates differences in trust across scientific disciplines and how these differences translate into societal preferences for funding. WP3 studies the quality and accuracy of scientific communication by scientists and journalists, exploring the impact of incentives and potential interventions to enhance communication effectiveness. Overall, this research aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of trust in science from various perspectives, including procedural aspects of academia, funding support across disciplines, and the quality of scientific communication.

• DFG Programme: Research Grants
• International Connection: United Kingdom
• Cooperation Partner: Eleonora Alabrese, Ph.D.
• Ehemaliger Antragsteller: Dr. Francesco Capozza, until 9/2025