When Science Becomes Embroiled in Conflict: Recognizing the Public's Need for Debate while Combating Conspiracies and Misinformation

We explore the common attributes of political conflicts in which scientific findings have a central role, using the COVID-19 pandemic as a case study, but also drawing on long-standing conflicts over climate change and vaccinations. We analyze situations in which the systematic spread of disinformation or conspiracy theories undermines public trust in the work of scientists and prevents policy from being informed by the best available evidence. We also examine instances in which public opposition to scientifically grounded policy arises from legitimate value judgments and lived experience. We argue for the public benefit of quick identification of politically motivated science denial, and inoculation of the public against its ill effects.

Automated summary

This article explores the common attributes of political conflicts where scientific findings play a central role, using the COVID-19 pandemic, climate change, and vaccines as examples. The analysis focuses on situations where the spread of disinformation or conspiracy theories undermines public trust in scientists and hinders evidence-based policymaking. It also discusses cases where opposition to scientifically grounded policies arises from legitimate value judgments and personal experiences. The authors advocate for the prompt recognition of politically motivated science denial and the immunization of the public against its detrimental effects.