VERITY Recommendations for Fostering Trust in Science: Educating and Raising Awareness

Education and raising awareness among the public and Stewards of Trust are essential for fostering trust in science, as they bridge the gap between scientific advancements and societal understanding. VERITY protocol recommendations in this category seek to address scientific complexity, uncertainty, and falsifiability, and explain the iterative nature of scientific progress. They address the ways of countering misconceptions. Other strategies include outreach efforts and awareness campaigns using innovative formats (such as science buses, cafés, and community programs) tailored to cultural and demographic contexts that can build trust in underserved and remote areas. Activities aimed at empowering individuals with digital literacy and critical source evaluation skills can enhance resilience to mis/disinformation and reduce echo chambers by promoting exposure to diverse, credible information sources. Science education and awareness-raising should not be limited to the general public but extend to all actors in the ecosystem of trust in science, including policymakers and media, since everyone benefits from understanding the logic of science and scientific methods.