Trust in Science

Like no other time in history, many have questioned the independence of research and scientists through Covid. Conspiracy theories about Covid and the use of vaccinations have been popularized not only through disinformation in the social media but also by politicians to aid their own agendas. This has been exacerbated by the confused and conflicting response across the world to the Covid pandemic.

Science should be neutral and based not only on evidence but we must allow science to continually evolve encompassing new information and evidence. However, people need to realize that there are no certainties in science.

All of us have to be mindful of the trust and value all of society as well as the medical community put in us. We need to ensure that both are taught the art of science and specifically the concept of scientific literacy and understanding. This may prevent controversies like that after the now disproven link between the measles-mumps-rubella vaccine and autism was reported in 1998 and its subsequent retraction.[1]

Despite the negative publicity received by science we need to remember that most people still continue to have faith in science. A recent Washington Post commissioned survey showed overwhelming bipartisan confidence in science. Similar results of confidence in science and scientists have been found in the UK and Germany.

As a journal we aim to be honest, neutral and transparent always avoiding bias. All publications undergo rigorous peer review allowing us to make evidence-based decisions.

In 2021 we must show optimism that some degree of normality will return and that we have learned how to deal with other pandemics in the future and the importance of all of us pulling together.

Sat Parmar, Seenu Susarla, Rui Fernandes