UC researchers seek to rebuild public trust in science through hands-on programs
A new book series and community events aim to connect academic science with everyday life as global confidence in the field continues to drop.
By Luka Evans ·
University of Cincinnati officials say they are working to close the gap between academic research and the general public. The effort comes as data shows public confidence in scientific institutions has declined in recent years.
Angela Potochnik, a philosophy professor and head of UC's Department of Philosophy, leads the Center for Public Engagement with Science. She noted that scientific discussions often become politicized. According to surveys by the nonprofit Wellcome, only 72% of people in 140 countries now say they have some or a lot of trust in science. That figure is down from 80% before the COVID-19 pandemic.
Potochnik described the situation as tricky but essential. She stated that science is the best systematic method humans have developed to gain knowledge and control over their world. The center aims to make science more responsive to public interests while giving people easier access to it.
The center hosts regular public events to achieve this goal. These include Science Harvest activities at the Northside Farmers Market during the summer and early fall. They also hold workshops at the Natural History Museum.
A new initiative involves a book series published by Cambridge University Press. The series shares successful science engagement strategies with other institutions. One book focuses on the role mothers play in shaping national science policy and public support for science.
Brian Pollock, manager of STEM resources for the Cincinnati Museum Center, joined Potochnik on a local radio program. Adjunct Professor Andrew Bernier, who manages education and research for Cincinnati Parks, also participated in the discussion.
Bernier said that trust in science starts in early childhood. Cincinnati Parks runs summer camps and field trips to make science enjoyable for young people. The organization also offers facilitated hikes for seniors and programs at senior centers. Bernier noted that they conduct many field trips and guided hikes, and they install public signage to explain the natural and social history of the parks. He summarized the approach by saying that finding joy in science is the first step for building trust.
