The Most Trusted Sources in Science
Posted on August 12, 2008 Comments (0)
PBS: The Most Trusted Source in Science?
When Americans were asked in 2005 about their views on the credibility of information sources about biotechnology, a clear hierarchy of trust emerged starting at the top with scientific journals (almost 60% of respondents said they trusted journals as credible information ), followed by university scientists who are funded by government (50%), public television (50%), government scientists (40%), the WHO (40%), university scientists funded by industry (35%), biotechnology company scientists (30%), religious leaders (20%), TV networks (18%), biotechnology executives (15%), print media (15%), and political leaders (10%)
The data is from a survey by NSF in 2005. I predict PBS’ influence will grow as they provide valuable, open access, content online (the way the public will get most of their news).
Related: Report on Use of Online Science Resources – ASU Science Studio Podcasts – Science and Engineering Webcasts – Science Journalist Fellows at MIT
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