How Can Scientists Build Public Trust? Intellectual Humility May Be the Key

How Can Scientists Build Public Trust? Intellectual Humility May Be the Key

How can scientists earn the public’s trust, especially on contentious topics like climate change and vaccines? A new study from the University of Pittsburgh suggests the answer lies in intellectual humility—acknowledging that one’s knowledge might be incomplete or wrong. “Intellectual humility is central to good science,” the researchers explain. “Recognizing the limits of one’s knowledge and being open to new evidence can signal trustworthiness…