Image by Jordyn Wald.

Is the public losing trust in scientists? No, according to a new survey of over 70,000 respondents around the world. Researchers found instead that most people still trust scientists—and want them involved in solving society’s biggest problems. On a scale from very low to very high, the global average for trust in scientists was somewhat high, with the highest trust levels reported in Switzerland, China, and Denmark. The United States came in slightly above average on trust, while Russia, Kazakhstan, and several neighboring countries showed the lowest levels of trust.

Across the globe, people generally view scientists as competent and acting in the public interest. Nearly 80% believe scientists are qualified to conduct important research, and three-quarters agree that science is the best way to determine what’s true. Support for scientists’ public role is strong as well: most respondents say scientists should communicate with the public, advise politicians, and even advocate for specific policies. Trust was especially high in African countries when it came to public engagement. Still, views aren’t monolithic—trust tends to be higher among women, urban residents, people with higher incomes or education levels, and those who lean politically progressive.

Similarly, there is a gap between what people want science to focus on and what they believe scientists are actually working on. Most participants around the world said they wanted science to prioritize public health, clean energy, and poverty wanted science to prioritize public health, clean energy, and poverty reduction — but that scientists were instead spending too much time on defense and military technology. This gap matters because when people feel that science aligns with their values and priorities, they are more likely to trust it.

Even though average trust levels are high, the study also revealed a warning sign: a small minority of people report deep skepticism toward science. These individuals often believe that scientists are disconnected from everyday concerns or too aligned with political elites. Although there isn’t a hard party line, people who are more skeptical are more likely to hold conservative political views, believe that social hierarchies are needed in society, or think that common sense should outweigh expert knowledge. And while they may be in the minority, researchers caution that even a small group can have an outsized influence, especially if they are highly visible in the media, well-organized, or occupy positions of political power.