Trust in Science and Science-Related Populism: A Many Labs Study

The goal of this project is to analyze factors that affect public trust in science as well as the prevalence and predictors of science-related populist attitudes across countries worldwide. Specifically, the project focusses on public opinion on the role of science in society and policymaking, perceived goals and benefits of science, ways individuals across the globe inform themselves and communicate about science, and climate change attitudes.

These issues are investigated using a global survey. To sample participants in as many countries as possible, the project is set up in the form of a Many Labs study. Interested researchers can collaborate on this project by collecting data in exchange for co-authorship. 

The study has been initiated and conceptualized by Dr. Viktoria Cologna (Harvard University) and Niels G. Mede, who lead a core research team that includes Prof. Dr. Mike S. Schäfer as well as further leading scholars in the field of science communication, political communication, and environmental psychology (see below).

More information is available at the project homepage

Dr. Viktoria Cologna (Harvard University, main lead), Niels Mede (co-lead), Prof. Dr. Mike S. Schäfer (UZH), Prof. Dr. Naomi Oreskes (Harvard University), Prof. Dr. John Besley (Michigan State University), Ass. Prof. Dr. Sebastian Berger (University of Bern), Prof. Dr. Sabina Mihelj (Loughborough University), Ass. Prof. Dr. Cameron Brick (University of Amsterdam), Prof Dr. Edward W. Maibach (George Mason University), Dr. Marina Joubert (Stellenbosch University), Prof. Dr. Sander van der Linden (University of Cambridge).