Revisiting the Deficit Model: The Effect of Water Science Knowledge on Policy Perceptions

Knowledge deficit research indicates that scientific knowledge typically has limited impact on policy preferences and may unknowingly impact unmeasured factors on policy success. This research examined whether water science knowledge may have unforeseen impacts that should be considered before reducing reliance on knowledge interventions. A survey of 1,011 Florida residents assessed the relationship among knowledge of scientific water topics and understanding of water tradeoffs, willingness to reconsider preferences, perceived need for water quality improvement, trust in policy information, perceived bias, and desired stakeholder involvement. Results indicate that participants’ scientific water knowledge increased understanding of the tradeoffs between policy options; however, there was a negative association between water knowledge and perceived need for water quality improvement. Results also revealed that while knowledge enhances understanding of tradeoffs and diminishes perceived scientific bias, it also correlates with decreased backing for stakeholder involvement and less openness to changing opinions.