5 myths that fuel rejection of science

I watched the movie "Don't look up" (link to IMdB) on a well known streaming service.

I expected a comedy - and in a sense it is...

But, as someone who deals with translating jargon into plain language in order to get audiences to realise how science can help people and policy-making, the movie left me a bit unhappy, scared, cringing.

I was grateful for the end scenes, as they brought back a laugh... somewhat.

Science communication is not easy

The movie shows brutally that scientists need to have some understanding of audiences to improve the chance of a true dialogue.

And that science communication requires well-trained science communicators with a high-level of skill and expertise to help people to understand research.

See also "It’s not as easy as it looks"

Then I came across the article

"‘Don’t Look Up’: Hollywood’s primer on climate denial illustrates 5 myths that fuel rejection of science"

And the article resonated true with me.

For those who want to read the full article please follow the URL: https://theconversation.com/dont-look-up-hollywoods-primer-on-climate-denial-illustrates-5-myths-that-fuel-rejection-of-…

For those short in time, here are  the 5 myths and some key sentences:

5 myths that fuel rejection of science

Myth #1: We can’t act unless the science is 100% certain
Myth #2: Disturbing realities as described by scientists are too difficult for the public to accept
Myth #3: Technology will save us, so we don’t have to act
Myth #4: The economy is more important than anything, including impending crises predicted by science
Myth #5: Our actions should always align with our social identity group

How to combat science denial – and climate change

Individuals can check their own motivations and beliefs about climate change and remain open minded to scientific evidence.
Educators can teach students how to source scientific information and evaluate it.
Science communicators can explain not just what scientists know but how they know it.
Policymakers can make decisions based on scientific evidence.

So, as science communicators,let's "work to help people make sound decisions about complex problems".

Let's "encourage people to consume news and science information" by making it easy to understand and to remember.