Public Visibility of Scientists: A Survey of Expectations in South Africa and Germany

A recent survey reveals that public recognition of scientists is limited in South Africa and Germany, emphasizing the importance of engaging visibility. Most respondents could not identify living scientists, indicating a need for improved public communication and outreach. The findings showcase similar expectations for scientists across cultures, highlighting the necessity for proactive public engagement and collaboration with communication professionals.

Recent research indicates the significant importance of public engagement by scientists in South Africa and Germany. As scientific discoveries increasingly dominate headlines, it becomes vital for scientists to be recognizable figures in society. Engaging with the public allows scientists to influence policy, shape public opinion, and counter misinformation, proving crucial especially during crises.

Despite some scientists achieving media visibility, a recent survey highlighted their overall lack of recognition among the public. Over half of the respondents in both South Africa and Germany could not name any living scientists from their own countries. Many responses included deceased scientists or controversial figures misidentified as scientists, indicating a broader misunderstanding of who constitutes a scientist.

The research revealed that scientists renowned for their work during the COVID-19 pandemic were among the few mentioned. Notable examples included health experts whose visibility increased during the crisis, further supporting the notion that public recognition of scientists remains limited.

Expectations from the public regarding scientists’ visibility include maintaining strong professional reputations while being articulate, dedicated, and media-savvy. Respondents highlighted a desire for visible scientists to prioritize public interests and operate transparently, avoiding political affiliations. The findings suggest a general acceptance of any gender representation among visible scientists, indicating opportunities for younger and female scientists to enhance their public presence.

The study underscores a strong, universal expectation for scientists across different cultures and countries to engage proactively with the public. The accompanying Many Labs project reveals a high level of trust in scientists globally, along with a desire for them to partake more actively in evidence-based policymaking. Additionally, scientists wishing to enhance their media visibility can benefit from collaborating with professional communicators and utilizing available resources for effective science communication.

The survey findings highlight the necessity for scientists to be publicly visible and engaged with society, as their expertise is crucial in shaping public understanding and combating misinformation. While there exists a persistent absence of recognizable scientists in the public eye, expectations remain high for those who do engage with the public to be articulate, trustworthy, and dedicated to serving the community. Strategies to enhance visibility should be pursued actively, allowing broader representation among scientists.

Original Source: theconversation.com