How the public evaluates various sources of scientific information: A descriptive examination

Abstract

This study examines six types of science, health, and medical sources, focusing on public perceptions of each source’s gender, credibility, benevolence, and political affiliation. Results reveal that medical doctors were rated highest in credibility and benevolence. All of the expert sources were more likely to be reported as male, reflecting persistent stereotypes. Public health experts and academic scientists were perceived as more liberal, whereas medical doctors and industry scientists did not have perceived political affiliations. Across all sources, perceptions of political partisanship corresponded with lower credibility perceptions. Implications for science and health communication research and practice are considered.