Scientists and religious leaders compete for cultural authority of science

TLDR

Public trust studies often focus on whether people rely on the science communication industry, yet research suggests scientists are not the sole cultural authority on science. This study investigates how frequently individuals consult religious sources for scientific information. Using a nationally representative US adult survey, the authors assess how factors such as religiosity and science interest influence the choice between science‑based and religion‑based information sources. Results show that higher religiosity predicts greater use of religious sources without reducing use of scientific sources, and that a strong interest in science also increases the likelihood of consulting religious sources.

Abstract

Measurement of public trust in sources of information about science primarily examines whether the public turns to the "science communication industry" for information about science. Research posits, however, that scientists are not the singular cultural authority on science. Here, we examine the extent to which people turn to religion and religious individuals for information about science. Drawing on a nationally representative survey of US adults, we examine what factors-when individuals have a question about science-shape respondent's likelihood of turning to science-based versus religion-based sources. Results show that religiosity is a strong positive predictor of looking to religious sources for scientific information, but it does not deter seeking out scientific sources. The results also show that interest in science has a positive influence on the likelihood of turning to a religious source.