Like research, our organization has many moving parts in our efforts to modernize science communication. None of which is possible without involvement from both the people doing the research and the general public.
What you as a member of the general public can do to help our mission.
Be curious and open minded
While textbooks were accurate to our knowledge at the time, science is constantly adding context to what we knew. This was evident during COVID-19 as safety protocols were constantly updated as new research became available. Science works off available data and sometime that data with more information can change the conclusions people make. Ask yourself, “What information would I need to change my mind?”
Be critical
Telling your parents what you mean can often be very different from what they hear. The conclusions made from data is an interpretation. In peer review, multiple experts look at the same data and agree that the conclusion is reasonable, not that is the the only possible answer. Make sure you are as harsh with your own opinions as you are with others.
Realize scientists are people just like you
Just as you would not ask your electrician to do your taxes or your dentist to fix your roof, scientists don’t know everything. They know a lot about the their field of work, just as you know a lot about the work that you do. Trust that they are experts but don’t be afraid to get a second opinion from another expert in the field if you ever have doubts. If you ever attend a scientific conference you might find scientists don’t agree on everything.
What you as a scientist can do to help our mission
Be patient
You are one of the few experts in your niche with years and years of training. It’s easy to get frustrated when it feels like people aren’t understanding the language that’s become second nature to you. If you can ask questions and meet them where they are, we can get a little closer to more understanding for everyone.
Connect emotionally
Facts alone rarely change minds. It is hard to integrate information that doesn’t align with ingrained beliefs. To counter misinformation, anchor your message in topics that connect us all: our health, our interests, and our family. Not every attempt will be a breakthrough, but even small steps toward understanding matters.
Realize the public are people just like you
Like the panic of burst pipes on a holiday weekend, people struggle when they feel helpless, waiting for someone to fix it. Your research will likely resonate most with those directly affected. While your work may not save anyone today, you can still help by making it accessible, so when someone gets a diagnosis, they don’t need decades of expertise to understand their options.
