Science in danger: Citizens show skepticism - rally for the truth!

Science in danger: Citizens show skepticism - rally for the truth!

In the middle of an alarming increase in skepticism of science in Austria, Federal Minister Leonore Holzleitner has urged. It emphasizes the urgency that the government must stand by the scientists to compete against the rapid spread of conspiracy theories and misinformation. "Free research is not a privilege, but a necessity - for progress, open society and our liberal democracy!" she explained. Her words come at the right time, since today representatives of the "Scientists for Future" movement call up a large rally against skepticism of science, which has its origin in the global protest movement against fake news that has been operated worldwide since 2017.

scientific skepticism in focus

A current study by the ÖAW science barometer shows that about a third of the Austrians of science hardly brings confidence. It is worrying that 37 percent of the population is more based on their “common sense” instead of taking into account scientific knowledge. These alarming results are the result of a Eurobarometer study, which ultimately forced politics and science in Austria to take the existing problem seriously after similar findings already led to a worrying image in 2010. As the reporting of DerStandard are urgently required.

With the march for science, the organizers set a visible sign against the prevailing skepticism and demand a rethink in society. Holzleitner and their colleagues in the ministry are aware of the need to have a broader public discussion about science and to emphasize their importance for the future of the country, as well as from ots becomes. It is clear that the time has come to action to strengthen trust in science and to stop the spread of misinformation.