The Dissenter

#1105 Kostas Kampourakis - Trusting Science: Why We Need to Reconsider School Science Teaching

Jun 2, 2025
Kostas Kampourakis, an expert in science education and author of 'Trusting Science', joins the discussion to explore the critical need for trust in science. He delves into the public's complex relationship with vaccination, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, balancing individual liberty and collective responsibility. Kampourakis emphasizes the importance of effective science communication and educating students on uncertainty and critical thinking. He also examines the ramifications of relying on scientific expertise, underscoring the need for skepticism and informed decision-making.
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INSIGHT

Trust and Education Gap

  • Public trust in science is relatively high but many still hesitate to trust scientists fully.
  • Educational systems fail to prepare thoughtful citizens who understand how science works and should not be blamed for this gap.
INSIGHT

What Trust in Science Means

  • Trust in science means believing experts are willing and able to advise us reliably.
  • Most scientists intend to help, but identifying when to trust requires understanding science's limits.
ANECDOTE

Vaccine History Illuminates Concerns

  • COVID-19 vaccine development during the pandemic was an unprecedented rapid effort.
  • Even biology students often misunderstand vaccination, showing how insights from history clarify people's concerns.
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