Building Trust in Science: A Two-Way Commitment

Science and scientific institutions face growing skepticism said Paul T. Anastas in his plenary talk.He called for a critical and honest reflection: Why does science now need defending?Citing Einstein's assertion that "the right to search for the truth implies also a duty," Anastas argues that ethical conduct and integrity must remain central to science.But the need to preserve and protect science goes beyond defending its credibility-it requires understanding why it is under attack in the first place.Historically, science emerged from resistance.The Scientific Revolution challenged entrenched beliefs and often faced accusations of heresy.Over centuries, science transformed into a dominant force of knowledge-what some have called a new orthodoxy.But with power comes scrutiny, and Anastas urges us to examine whether modern science's methods, culture, or institutions may themselves contribute to public distrust.Do individuals or institutions feel threatened by scientific findings?Are political, ideological, or economic forces driving the backlash?Is science too often perceived as elitist, opaque, or disconnected from public concerns?Anastas does not simply lament the erosion of public trust.Instead, he challenges the scientific community to confront uncomfortable truths about itself.Introspection, he suggests, is essential-not only to restore confidence but to build a science that truly serves society.By asking hard questions and acknowledging past shortcomings, science can be strengthened-not weakened.The path forward lies not in defensiveness, but in openness, accountability, and a renewed commitment to the values that made science a trusted pursuit in the first place.In doing so, we affirm that science is not just worthy of protection-it is worthy of the public's belief, engagement, and support.