Predictors and effects of scientific knowledge
International Journal of Sociology and Social Policy
ISSN: 0144-333X
Article publication date: 14 September 2021
Issue publication date: 18 August 2022
Abstract
Purpose
Scientific knowledge has been a topic of interest for scholars for a long time; however, its impact on scientific decision- making and determining trust is severely underresearched. This study is aimed at determining the relationship between cultural and social attitudes and scientific knowledge and the impact of knowledge on trust in scientists in general.
Design/methodology/approach
The authors conducted a face-to-face survey, drawing from a nationally representative sample of the adult Serbian population (N = 1,451). The authors tested the following parameters: a. the levels of scientific knowledge within the Serbian population; b. social and cultural values as predictors of scientific knowledge and c. the effects of scientific knowledge on trust in scientists.
Findings
The analysis shows a moderate level of scientific knowledge, predominantly positive public attitudes towards scientists. The authors found that scientific knowledge indeed predicts trust in scientists on various issues, and so do cultural and social worldviews, both directly and even more significantly through the mediation of scientific knowledge.
Originality/value
This is the first attempt to assess the level of scientific knowledge among the Serbian public and evaluate its, as well as other factors', influence on public attitudes toward scientists in a time when trusting experts is of great relevance.
Keywords
Acknowledgements
The research was supported by the Serbian Ministry of Education, Science and Technological Development (project number 179009), granted to the Institute for Political Studies.
Citation
Milošević-Đorđević, J., Kljajić, D., Sladojević Matić, J. and Đurić, Ž. (2022), "Predictors and effects of scientific knowledge", International Journal of Sociology and Social Policy, Vol. 42 No. 9/10, pp. 865-876. https://doi.org/10.1108/IJSSP-06-2021-0159
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2021, Emerald Publishing Limited