Trust in Science – The Importance of Acceptance of Climate Research Findings for Political and Social Action

With an increasing trend toward mistrust, the probability rises that people will succumb to perceived simple reassuring messages. In this respect, science represents an ever more important anchor in how facts are perceived in the context of this dynamic between trust and mistrust. We will discuss how science (e.g. climate research, social science, political science, etc.) can apply its findings to gain certainty of action in the context of the climate crisis challenge. Our guest speakers will also consider how science must protect itself from being co-opted all too much by one side and possibly also from being exploited.

The pervasive question is, what are the right approaches to gaining broad public acceptance of scientific knowledge (for example, on climate change)? Who are the trustworthy figures in a trustworthy scientific community committed to ensuring transparency, credibility, and authenticity? Are there other mechanisms? The importance of science and scientific facts in challenging and fragile times will be at the center of the discussion, with a focus on the climate crisis.

Event by invitation only.