Challenge by Berlin Science Week
How can science help bridge divides?
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More about the challenge topic, goal and organiser
In an era marked by growing polarization and misinformation, science finds itself in a dual role: both a target of increased skepticism and a potential force for unity. Although public confidence remains relatively strong, recent studies reveal increasing instances of hostility toward science, highlighting the need for new ways to foster trust and connection across divides.
Recent findings indicate that while a majority of people in Germany still trust in science (Wissenschaftsbarometer 2023), there are alarming signs of growing rejection and even hostility. Nearly half of scientists surveyed in a representative study (DZHW 2024) report experiencing at least one form of anti-scientific hostility, with 10% facing severe threats. These tensions underscore the need for science not only to share knowledge but also to foster trust, empathy, and inclusive dialogue.
Under this year’s annual theme, "Common Ground," this challenge invites participants of Berlin Science Week to imagine ways science can better contribute to social cohesion and resilience, equipping individuals with tools to navigate a rapidly changing world. Could we rethink how complex facts are communicated? How might science better inform decision-making? And could embracing diverse perspectives in research help science foster greater understanding across society?
Why Participate?
The results of this survey will be evaluated in collaboration with ASU Decision Theater and will be published through Berlin Science Week.
Who can Participate?
This challenge is open to all participants of Berlin Science Week 2024.
How might science better inform decision-making to tackle complex challenges?
How might science enable greater diversity in research to enrich our understanding?
How might science better communicate facts on difficult topics?
How might science empower individuals to navigate an ever-changing world?
Further Reading
Wissenschaftsbarometer 2023 – Repräsentative Bevölkerungsumfrage zu Wissenschaft und Forschung DZHW 2024 – Blümel, Clemens. 2024: Anfeindungen gegen Forschende: Eine repräsentative Studie des Projektes KAPAZ. Kurzdossier über die Berichterstattung. Hrsg: Deutsches Zentrum für Hochschul- und Wissenschaftsforschung GmbH.Challenge Hosts
Berlin Science Week
Berlin Science Week is an international gathering that brings together leading scientific organizations and innovators to share insights and explore the impact of science on society.
Decision Theatre
Decision Theatre is a collaborative platform that uses data visualization and interactive environments to support decision-making and engage diverse stakeholders in complex problem-solving.
Max-Planck-Institut für Bildungsforschung
The Max-Planck-Institut für Bildungsforschung conducts cutting-edge research in the fields of human development, education, and societal change, aiming to advance scientific understanding of cognitive and social processes.
Arizona State University
Arizona State University is a leading public research institution known for its innovative approach to education, commitment to inclusivity, and impactful research across a wide range of disciplines.
Challenge Context
This challenge is organized in the context of Berlin Science Week 2024 by Falling Walls Foundation, and organized in collaboration with Decision Theatre, Max-Planck-Institut für Bildungsforschung, and Arizona State University.
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Challenge by Berlin Science Week
How can science help bridge divides?
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Challenge by Berlin Science Week
How can science help bridge divides?
Science is about exploring possible futures and finding solutions to problems caused by inflexibility and looking backward. It provides fact-based hope and encourages people to focus on positive visions for the future. This helps overcome fear and resistance, such as those seen in backward populism.
Science can help bridge the gender divide in medicine through transparent research. There is however still the problem of funding inequality.
The value of science as a uniting force for our society is being taught with more rigor.
Wie Design Thinking … Mehr in die Gesellschaft gehen. #Elfenbeinturm Argumente schwächen. Stärker in die Kommunikation gehen.
We need a future in which people know the value of knowledge and that pursuing knowledge is worthwhile even if not directly applicable to the current state of things.
Science can help by investigating populist movements, conspiracy theories and divides in society.
Science can help bridge divides by making scientific findings, theories and knowledge, as a whole, more accessible and, thus, combating societal divides rooted in misinformation or unknowing.
Many scientists need to understand that their standing in society has changed - from highly respected and believed in to being questioned. This needs to be acknowledged, addressed and worked on
Science can address these challenges by promoting evidence-based policymaking and fostering international collaboration to tackle global issues like climate change. By countering misinformation and providing innovative solutions, it can help bridge divides and drive sustainable progress.
By helping us understand each other (social sciences)
A wide acknowledgments that science (in the narrow meaning, not “scientia”) is not able to provide objective facts, that there are always normative choices in the production of knowledge and unclaryfiable uncertainties. Embrace other ways of making sense of our world, including traditional wisdom.
Open science can trigger a rise of different perspectives. This exchange in such a condensed and focused environment may spark great creative input, and more congruent self realization through these kinds of relationships.
Through more awareness
I think that scientific efforts can help us to minimise damages & conserve our beautiful nature. These efforts also include public educational events & effective science communication stressing the impact of our behaviours not only for our individual lives but also for other future or current beings
If we could unite, we could grow together and establish great things. Unfortunately greed and power hungry people won’t give up their comfort and riches.
Science is of utmost importance when it comes to solving big challenges of our future (such as aging population, fighting disecases, o ver population etc.) With the help of AI scientific proceses will become faster.
An AI, which fact-checks information on the internet based on available research and gives a direct link to the research around the facts, so that fact-checking is as easily accessible and comprehensible as possible.
By interdisciplinary collaboration and global knowledge sharing and connection.
Implement policies requiring scientific assessments for every major government decision, ensuring that public policy aligns with current scientific knowledge.
Train a diverse group of Science Communication Ambassadors to visit schools, workplaces, and community centers to engage people on scientific topics in an accessible way.
Develop a recurring, televised forum where scientists and policymakers discuss pressing issues in real-time, providing citizens with transparent insights into how science informs government decisions.
Accept that perfect understanding (the world, eachother, oneself) is not a state we can reach. But keeping on building bridges is worth the constant effort.
Create a series of solutions that will allow AI to tailor results and information responses specifically to your needs while maintaining long-term context and being able to cross-reference similar findings from others.
Unpacking fake news
Gute Zukunft durch die Wissenschaft.
I am environmental scientist and I trust science that can find common grounds and elevate society if there are science engagement and communication methods used
We face a lot of global challenges like climate crises, geopolitical conflict and growing inequality. However, I believe in the resilience and adaptability of human beings to address these challenges and shape a better future. Science plays a massive part in this and helps us think of solutions.
I imagine that scientists collaborate with local communities before initiating research projects and that local communities are involved during the process of research. Scientists and researchers can then work with the government to create policies that work towards a sustainable future
I am hopeful that science will contribute significantly
Make people understand why other people might behave different to what they are expecting
Lot of hopes for a technologically advanced future. People have better understanding and belief in Science when it's made available for them to put it into use.
Fear of unknown is normal. Being a research student I feel a better communication of science that attracts a common minds is Essential
By bringing clarity
Science can reduce differences if there is interaction between researchers. For this to happen, we, from less developed countries, need help from countries at the forefront of research because our governments do not usually prioritize science. Interaction is the solution!
Science can help bridge divides by integrating different complexity thinking/diversity.
at the moment i cannot see how. And my view is rattert pessimistisch We have a facts and posdibilities to fact check, but some people still believe in dreagons
The future I wish for is much different from the Future which seems to emerge Right now. I am afraid of a future of Ego driven individuals who are just looking for their own profits and and focus division instead of togetherness and companionship.
Science can help with bridging the increasing ideological gender gap.
I think that one of the most important things science can do for society is teaching its methodology, which is not necessarily the one that professional scientists embody in reality. science is about humility and changing your mind when presented with evidence, and this should be thaught in schools
By learning more about the world And us around it the more we can find empathy with our existence.
Brings us closer but also creates a threat of power and superiority
Working together
Create more transparency for everyone.
We should have more collaboration in academia, especially interdisciplinarity and more science communication to involve more people. The academic system needs more support and resources to do this
Scientific findings on how to bridge cultural differences are being applied by schools, universities etc.
Develop AI-driven personalized science outreach that tailors information to individuals based on their interests and backgrounds, aiming to increase relatability and trust.
Use social media to promote citizen science projects, where people can actively participate in data collection and analysis for ongoing research topics, like biodiversity or health studies.
Introduce a mandatory science literacy curriculum in schools that emphasizes critical thinking, media literacy, and understanding scientific consensus.
Organize local science festivals with hands-on activities that directly connect science to daily life, making complex topics relatable and engaging.
Fund research initiatives that prioritize voices from underrepresented communities, allowing broader perspectives in scientific discourse.
Establish digital platforms where scientists, policy-makers, and citizens engage in structured debates on controversial scientific issues, using verified data and moderated exchanges.
Develop VR experiences that let people 'step into' scientific environments (e.g., labs or climate zones) to learn about complex issues interactively.
Create open-access data platforms where scientists and the public collaborate on local issues, such as pollution or resource management, using shared data and tools.
Truly take the time to search for and try out (mental) models that are as simple as possible and as complex as necessary.
Science is not religion. Be transparent about uncertainties, doubts and what you don’t know. Offer insights, don’t make it look like you offer something like the truth.
Das Wesen der "Kluft" muss zunächst analysiert werden, um wirkungsvoll Handeln zu können. Ist das schon geschehen? Wo ist die Analyse der "Kluft"?
A lot of divides exist because of prejudice and not really knowing much about a topic and perhaps feeling anxiety about the unknown and therefore rejecting the unknown. Science can combat all of that. It can deliver facts that will help people get rid of prejudice or prevent it in the first place.
I think science at least will make it “less bad”. they could make it better if politics would orientate their actions on what scientific results show.
Science brings more rationality and clarity which will help overcome extreme ideologies
Science will contribute to a better future, but I am slightly pessimistic about our common future
Science is great and is trying its best to make our world a better place for everyone. BUT the people don’t listen and follow scientific facts.
Question is: how do we change that. Trust in science. Follow the scientists opinion.
Science can be a tool in analysing how inequality effects people and which ideas for solution are the most productive.
Ask social scientist.
Through knowledge
Scientists need to transfer to work in politics after being a scientist.
AGI will positively & radically transform society
It can give evidence based facts wich create a commen ground for further discussion. Without this base any discussion is futile.
If not held back, it can help overbridge disadvantages made by history (e.g. natural resources or history of colonalisation)
I'm not sure it can. The elections in the USA were a real blow. It seems that people don't care about science as much as they care about their own comfort and power. The only option would be for politicians to step up and act in the common interest, not in the interest of the few.
Science bridges divides by addressing global challenges, promoting evidence-based dialogues, and fostering international collaboration. Science's objective nature helps build common ground and drive collective solutions.
Science seems to have become an essential correlating function to politics, one which then creates the temptation to proclaim the only remedying, or redemptiom, of science to be undoing this pairing. Sciences redemption can protrude politics, beginning with Nations who prioritize it over all Ideals.
Open science is crucial to drive innovation in a collaborative manner to actually foster novel discoveries for instance to find a cure for cancer!
Research, learning and sharing in compassionate informed ways can empower and bring people together
Science can help bridge divides by interdisciplinary collaboration
Science can help bridge divides by integrating science based-evidence and scientists in political discussions
A recent experiment showed AI mediation doing better than human mediators in identifying common ground between different positions. That’s something worth building on.
If done in the right way, it can make the world more equal!
I particularly think the Culture and Science part of the Berlin Science Week was a fabulous event. It brought all the current debates into the public realm by featuring creativity and it reinforced the need for the arts and the sciences to collaborate more in the future on communication.
Science has already discovered the solutions to most of the great challenges facing humanity today. What is required is more democratic buy-in for their implementation.
Science can help to bridge divides by inviting the public to take part in scientific experiments or helping them to unterstand scientific outcomes.
Sharing open and transparent data/evidence to build trust.
We need a future in which science is believed in. For this, we need good science communication.
Make social sciences and scientists are their knowledge more visible.
Earth’s and mankind’s regeneration, as faces of the same coin, should be addressed simultaneously, for their mutual support and contemplate a set of values, norms and policies that prioritizes human well-being, natural and built environments, the aesthetic, ethical and cultural meaning of life.
If science/scientists/scientific institutions developed more of an service mindset for decision making, it could become the source of information closest to "truth" in a post-truth era of information.
Science bridges divides by fostering global collaboration on shared challenges like climate change and health. By focusing on evidence, it encourages mutual understanding, reduces polarization, and unites people across cultures to solve problems that affect everyone, creating a more inclusive future
Never stop learning. Keeping an open mind.
Science can help to get more transparency about in discussions to identify fake news in a speach, discussion or video.
Countering misinformation: Scientists can correct false beliefs and foster constructive discussions, especially in fields such as health, environmental issues, and technologies.
We need to work interdisciplinary. We cannot have the STEM fields without the humanities.
Research on the topic of polarisation may help us to overcome divides
Mehr Transparenz & Storytelling schaffen: Wie arbeitet die Wissenschaft? Ich glaube für viele Menschen ist das Vorgehen, die Art der Forschung und Erkenntnisgewinnung nicht ganz klar. Das alles auch wieder widerlegt werden kann, dass man ein Quellen und beweise benötigt.
Always try to include a hopeful message in science engagement as hope inspires action and action inspires hope.
Science will find new ways to foster connections with society, e.g. through intersections with different disciplines.
Academic institutions offer trainings for effective science communication and participating in at least a basic level course is mandatory for all scientists.
Science can foster unity and peace by dispelling fear and misunderstanding through knowledge and effective communication.
the space for misinformation shrinks
Science can provide a better understanding of current social, economic and political issues. However, it needs to be communicated very well.
Research, analyse and display the needs and goals of diverse groups in an emotional context to proof that the goals are the same just the approach might be different. Show the similarities by (ai driven) studies instead of the differences in human thinking.
Science allows us to communicate clearer
Science can build trust for the future by showing us a way to build positive scenarios
Science communication is being done per default and with great effort by universities, academic institutions and individual scientists.
Science can help to not work only with gut feelings, but distingiush feelings from facts
helps to make data based decisions
through communication and networking activities
Common problems bring people together from all over the world
Fact checking both sides of a dispute to find common ground based on data
accessible science communication for diverse groups outside of academia
Do you want to take a look at the current results of the survey?
View survey results and scenarios
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They are updated in real time as soon as new opinions are published and evaluated
Get an overview of the results by reading the AI-generated summaries. For more details, examine the individual opinions and their ratings on the Futures Canvas.
Develop AI-driven personalized science outreach that tailors information to individuals based on their interests and backgrounds, aiming to increase relatability and trust.
Use social media to promote citizen science projects, where people can actively participate in data collection and analysis for ongoing research topics, like biodiversity or health studies.
Introduce a mandatory science literacy curriculum in schools that emphasizes critical thinking, media literacy, and understanding scientific consensus.
Organize local science festivals with hands-on activities that directly connect science to daily life, making complex topics relatable and engaging.
Fund research initiatives that prioritize voices from underrepresented communities, allowing broader perspectives in scientific discourse.
Establish digital platforms where scientists, policy-makers, and citizens engage in structured debates on controversial scientific issues, using verified data and moderated exchanges.
Develop VR experiences that let people 'step into' scientific environments (e.g., labs or climate zones) to learn about complex issues interactively.
Implement policies requiring scientific assessments for every major government decision, ensuring that public policy aligns with current scientific knowledge.
Create open-access data platforms where scientists and the public collaborate on local issues, such as pollution or resource management, using shared data and tools.
Train a diverse group of Science Communication Ambassadors to visit schools, workplaces, and community centers to engage people on scientific topics in an accessible way.
Develop a recurring, televised forum where scientists and policymakers discuss pressing issues in real-time, providing citizens with transparent insights into how science informs government decisions.
Accept that perfect understanding (the world, eachother, oneself) is not a state we can reach. But keeping on building bridges is worth the constant effort.
Truly take the time to search for and try out (mental) models that are as simple as possible and as complex as necessary.
Science is not religion. Be transparent about uncertainties, doubts and what you don’t know. Offer insights, don’t make it look like you offer something like the truth.
Create a series of solutions that will allow AI to tailor results and information responses specifically to your needs while maintaining long-term context and being able to cross-reference similar findings from others.
Das Wesen der "Kluft" muss zunächst analysiert werden, um wirkungsvoll Handeln zu können. Ist das schon geschehen? Wo ist die Analyse der "Kluft"?
A lot of divides exist because of prejudice and not really knowing much about a topic and perhaps feeling anxiety about the unknown and therefore rejecting the unknown. Science can combat all of that. It can deliver facts that will help people get rid of prejudice or prevent it in the first place.
Unpacking fake news
I think science at least will make it “less bad”. they could make it better if politics would orientate their actions on what scientific results show.
Science brings more rationality and clarity which will help overcome extreme ideologies
Gute Zukunft durch die Wissenschaft.
Science will contribute to a better future, but I am slightly pessimistic about our common future
Science is great and is trying its best to make our world a better place for everyone. BUT the people don’t listen and follow scientific facts.
Question is: how do we change that. Trust in science. Follow the scientists opinion.
I am environmental scientist and I trust science that can find common grounds and elevate society if there are science engagement and communication methods used
We face a lot of global challenges like climate crises, geopolitical conflict and growing inequality. However, I believe in the resilience and adaptability of human beings to address these challenges and shape a better future. Science plays a massive part in this and helps us think of solutions.
I imagine that scientists collaborate with local communities before initiating research projects and that local communities are involved during the process of research. Scientists and researchers can then work with the government to create policies that work towards a sustainable future
I am hopeful that science will contribute significantly
Science can be a tool in analysing how inequality effects people and which ideas for solution are the most productive.
Never stop learning. Keeping an open mind.
Make people understand why other people might behave different to what they are expecting
Make social sciences and scientists are their knowledge more visible.
Lot of hopes for a technologically advanced future. People have better understanding and belief in Science when it's made available for them to put it into use.
Fear of unknown is normal. Being a research student I feel a better communication of science that attracts a common minds is Essential
Through knowledge
AGI will positively & radically transform society
Scientists need to transfer to work in politics after being a scientist.
Ask social scientist.
By bringing clarity
By helping us understand each other (social sciences)
It can give evidence based facts wich create a commen ground for further discussion. Without this base any discussion is futile.
If not held back, it can help overbridge disadvantages made by history (e.g. natural resources or history of colonalisation)
Science can reduce differences if there is interaction between researchers. For this to happen, we, from less developed countries, need help from countries at the forefront of research because our governments do not usually prioritize science. Interaction is the solution!
Science bridges divides by addressing global challenges, promoting evidence-based dialogues, and fostering international collaboration. Science's objective nature helps build common ground and drive collective solutions.
Science can help to get more transparency about in discussions to identify fake news in a speach, discussion or video.
I'm not sure it can. The elections in the USA were a real blow. It seems that people don't care about science as much as they care about their own comfort and power. The only option would be for politicians to step up and act in the common interest, not in the interest of the few.
Open science is crucial to drive innovation in a collaborative manner to actually foster novel discoveries for instance to find a cure for cancer!
Research, learning and sharing in compassionate informed ways can empower and bring people together
Science seems to have become an essential correlating function to politics, one which then creates the temptation to proclaim the only remedying, or redemptiom, of science to be undoing this pairing. Sciences redemption can protrude politics, beginning with Nations who prioritize it over all Ideals.
Science can help bridge divides by interdisciplinary collaboration
Science can help bridge divides by integrating different complexity thinking/diversity.
Science can help bridge divides by integrating science based-evidence and scientists in political discussions
The future I wish for is much different from the Future which seems to emerge Right now. I am afraid of a future of Ego driven individuals who are just looking for their own profits and and focus division instead of togetherness and companionship.
A recent experiment showed AI mediation doing better than human mediators in identifying common ground between different positions. That’s something worth building on.
Science can help with bridging the increasing ideological gender gap.
If done in the right way, it can make the world more equal!
By learning more about the world And us around it the more we can find empathy with our existence.
I think that one of the most important things science can do for society is teaching its methodology, which is not necessarily the one that professional scientists embody in reality. science is about humility and changing your mind when presented with evidence, and this should be thaught in schools
at the moment i cannot see how. And my view is rattert pessimistisch We have a facts and posdibilities to fact check, but some people still believe in dreagons
A wide acknowledgments that science (in the narrow meaning, not “scientia”) is not able to provide objective facts, that there are always normative choices in the production of knowledge and unclaryfiable uncertainties. Embrace other ways of making sense of our world, including traditional wisdom.
Open science can trigger a rise of different perspectives. This exchange in such a condensed and focused environment may spark great creative input, and more congruent self realization through these kinds of relationships.
Through more awareness
I think that scientific efforts can help us to minimise damages & conserve our beautiful nature. These efforts also include public educational events & effective science communication stressing the impact of our behaviours not only for our individual lives but also for other future or current beings
Working together
Brings us closer but also creates a threat of power and superiority
If we could unite, we could grow together and establish great things. Unfortunately greed and power hungry people won’t give up their comfort and riches.
Science is of utmost importance when it comes to solving big challenges of our future (such as aging population, fighting disecases, o ver population etc.) With the help of AI scientific proceses will become faster.
Create more transparency for everyone.
We should have more collaboration in academia, especially interdisciplinarity and more science communication to involve more people. The academic system needs more support and resources to do this
Always try to include a hopeful message in science engagement as hope inspires action and action inspires hope.
I particularly think the Culture and Science part of the Berlin Science Week was a fabulous event. It brought all the current debates into the public realm by featuring creativity and it reinforced the need for the arts and the sciences to collaborate more in the future on communication.
Earth’s and mankind’s regeneration, as faces of the same coin, should be addressed simultaneously, for their mutual support and contemplate a set of values, norms and policies that prioritizes human well-being, natural and built environments, the aesthetic, ethical and cultural meaning of life.
Science can help to not work only with gut feelings, but distingiush feelings from facts
accessible science communication for diverse groups outside of academia
Science allows us to communicate clearer
helps to make data based decisions
Common problems bring people together from all over the world
Science communication is being done per default and with great effort by universities, academic institutions and individual scientists.
Fact checking both sides of a dispute to find common ground based on data
through communication and networking activities
Science can build trust for the future by showing us a way to build positive scenarios
Science can provide a better understanding of current social, economic and political issues. However, it needs to be communicated very well.
the space for misinformation shrinks
Research, analyse and display the needs and goals of diverse groups in an emotional context to proof that the goals are the same just the approach might be different. Show the similarities by (ai driven) studies instead of the differences in human thinking.
Science can foster unity and peace by dispelling fear and misunderstanding through knowledge and effective communication.
Science will find new ways to foster connections with society, e.g. through intersections with different disciplines.
Academic institutions offer trainings for effective science communication and participating in at least a basic level course is mandatory for all scientists.
Mehr Transparenz & Storytelling schaffen: Wie arbeitet die Wissenschaft? Ich glaube für viele Menschen ist das Vorgehen, die Art der Forschung und Erkenntnisgewinnung nicht ganz klar. Das alles auch wieder widerlegt werden kann, dass man ein Quellen und beweise benötigt.
If science/scientists/scientific institutions developed more of an service mindset for decision making, it could become the source of information closest to "truth" in a post-truth era of information.
We need to work interdisciplinary. We cannot have the STEM fields without the humanities.
Countering misinformation: Scientists can correct false beliefs and foster constructive discussions, especially in fields such as health, environmental issues, and technologies.
Research on the topic of polarisation may help us to overcome divides
Science bridges divides by fostering global collaboration on shared challenges like climate change and health. By focusing on evidence, it encourages mutual understanding, reduces polarization, and unites people across cultures to solve problems that affect everyone, creating a more inclusive future
Sharing open and transparent data/evidence to build trust.
We need a future in which science is believed in. For this, we need good science communication.
Scientific findings on how to bridge cultural differences are being applied by schools, universities etc.
Science has already discovered the solutions to most of the great challenges facing humanity today. What is required is more democratic buy-in for their implementation.
Science can help to bridge divides by inviting the public to take part in scientific experiments or helping them to unterstand scientific outcomes.
Science is about exploring possible futures and finding solutions to problems caused by inflexibility and looking backward. It provides fact-based hope and encourages people to focus on positive visions for the future. This helps overcome fear and resistance, such as those seen in backward populism.
An AI, which fact-checks information on the internet based on available research and gives a direct link to the research around the facts, so that fact-checking is as easily accessible and comprehensible as possible.
By interdisciplinary collaboration and global knowledge sharing and connection.
Science can help bridge the gender divide in medicine through transparent research. There is however still the problem of funding inequality.
The value of science as a uniting force for our society is being taught with more rigor.
Wie Design Thinking … Mehr in die Gesellschaft gehen. #Elfenbeinturm Argumente schwächen. Stärker in die Kommunikation gehen.
We need a future in which people know the value of knowledge and that pursuing knowledge is worthwhile even if not directly applicable to the current state of things.
Science can help by investigating populist movements, conspiracy theories and divides in society.
Science can help bridge divides by making scientific findings, theories and knowledge, as a whole, more accessible and, thus, combating societal divides rooted in misinformation or unknowing.
Many scientists need to understand that their standing in society has changed - from highly respected and believed in to being questioned. This needs to be acknowledged, addressed and worked on
Science can address these challenges by promoting evidence-based policymaking and fostering international collaboration to tackle global issues like climate change. By countering misinformation and providing innovative solutions, it can help bridge divides and drive sustainable progress.
feasible
not feasible
transformative
limited impact
Strategic Solutions
Visionary Goals
Aspirational Concepts
Practical Steps
107 Opinions
562 Ratings
562 Ratings
Resulting future scenarios
Based on their ratings, submitted opinions have been compiled into four distinct future scenarios, autonomously generated by artificial intelligence.
Strategic Solutions
Future Science: Trust Transformed
Practical Steps
Future Science Festivals Transform Communities
Visionary Goals
Science-Driven Society Overcomes Historical Disparities
Aspirational Concepts
Headline: Scientific Knowledge to Guide Policy
Future Science: Trust Transformed
Based on 72 opinions and 453 ratings.
View individual opinions in the Futures Canvas by filtering for the sector "Strategic Solutions".
- Science outreach through AI could personalize information, increasing relatability and fostering trust.
- Education systems might mandate science literacy curricula, enhancing critical thinking and media literacy.
- Digital platforms for debates could improve evidence-based discussions, countering misinformation and fostering transparency.
In a future scenario, several distinct advancements could reshape the landscape of scientific engagement and societal trust. Science outreach might become more personalized through AI, allowing individuals to receive information tailored to their interests and educational backgrounds, potentially increasing relatability and fostering trust. Social media might emerge as a powerful tool to engage citizens in scientific endeavors, inspiring active participation in projects like biodiversity and health research, thus augmenting public understanding and involvement.
Education systems could evolve, implementing mandatory science literacy curricula emphasizing critical thinking and media literacy, ensuring future generations are adept at navigating scientific consensuses. Significant research shifts might prioritize underrepresented voices, enriching scientific discourse with diverse perspectives.
The development and utilization of digital platforms for structured debates between scientists, policymakers, and citizens could enhance evidence-based discussions on controversial topics, countering misinformation, and fostering transparency. Interactive VR environments could enable immersive learning experiences, fostering empathy and understanding of complex scientific issues.
Underlying these innovations might be the enduring drive to bridge societal divides, leveraging science communication to dispel fear and prejudice, encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration, and integrating science in policy-making. Ultimately, the future could witness a profound transformation in how science is perceived and trusted, paving the way for collective solutions to pressing global challenges.
Future Science Festivals Transform Communities
Based on 14 opinions and 42 ratings.
View individual opinions in the Futures Canvas by filtering for the sector "Practical Steps".
- Local science festivals could transform communities by linking scientific concepts to everyday life.
- A televised forum with scientists and policymakers might foster rational dialogue and evidence-based discussions.
- Open science and interdisciplinary events could bridge inequities and inspire a collaborative future.
In the future, local science festivals could transform communities by making science accessible and engaging through interactive activities that link scientific concepts to everyday life. A diverse network of Science Communication Ambassadors might spearhead this movement, extending knowledge into schools, workplaces, and community hubs in a relatable manner.
The media landscape could evolve to showcase a televised forum where scientists and policymakers discuss urgent matters, offering citizens transparency in how scientific insights shape governance. By openly acknowledging uncertainties and embracing evidence-based discussions, these platforms might foster rationality and quell divisive ideologies, creating a common ground for meaningful dialogue.
Despite concerns about ego-driven futures, there remains a vision for a collaborative society where science catalyzes empathy by revealing diverse perspectives. The sharing of ideas might instigate creativity and deepen self-awareness, leading to a cohesive community.
Events like the Berlin Science Week might exemplify this collaboration by blending arts and sciences, highlighting current debates to the public and underscoring the necessity for interdisciplinary partnerships. Open science could also address inequities, such as bridging the gender gap in medicine through transparent research, despite ongoing challenges like funding disparities. This integrated approach may still carry a message of hope, inspiring collective action towards a more unified future.
Science-Driven Society Overcomes Historical Disparities
Based on 9 opinions and 23 ratings.
View individual opinions in the Futures Canvas by filtering for the sector "Visionary Goals".
- Science could help overcome historical disadvantages by prioritizing knowledge and innovation.
- Political attitudes, valuing personal comfort, hinder a scientifically unified future.
- AI mediation may foster consensus, promoting collective progress over personal ambition.
In a future where science becomes the cornerstone of progress, society could potentially transcend historical disadvantages such as limited natural resources or colonial legacies. By fostering an environment where the value of knowledge is universally recognized, communities might bridge disparities through the pursuit of understanding and innovation. Emphasis on education and transparency could help individuals appreciate diverse perspectives, ensuring that differences are not seen as obstacles but as opportunities for growth.
However, this ideal scenario is complicated by current societal attitudes, as demonstrated by political events like elections in the United States, where personal comfort and power often overshadow the common good. For a future grounded in science and unity, political leaders might need to prioritize collective interests over individual gains. The development of AI mediation, which has shown promise in fostering consensus, may play a pivotal role, further enabling unified action.
A world strengthened by scientific clarity and cooperation might only be realized if humanity overcomes the intrinsic motivations of greed and power. The possibility of widespread transparency and clarity could pave the way for human and artificial intelligence to collaborate effectively, fostering a future where collective progress trumps personal ambition.
Headline: Scientific Knowledge to Guide Policy
Based on 10 opinions and 25 ratings.
View individual opinions in the Futures Canvas by filtering for the sector "Aspirational Concepts".
- Governments may require scientific assessments for evidence-based policy-making and increased public scientific literacy.
- Scientists in political roles could promote inclusive dialogue and bridge ideological gaps using science.
- Persistent beliefs may challenge science, but valuing various wisdom forms could foster holistic understanding.
In a future scenario, governments might implement stringent policies requiring scientific assessments for major decisions, potentially aligning public policy with cutting-edge scientific knowledge. This could foster a more scientifically literate society where decisions are evidence-based. Open-access platforms might emerge, allowing scientists and the public to collaboratively tackle local issues, creating a dynamic sharing of data and insights aimed at addressing challenges like pollution and resource management.
Scientists could transition more frequently into political roles, leveraging their expertise to inform policy-making directly. They might work alongside social scientists to bridge ideological and gender gaps, using science as a tool to foster inclusive dialogue and understanding. Moreover, the potential integration of scientific methodology in educational curriculums might cultivate a culture of humility and adaptability, encouraging the public to change their views based on new evidence.
However, acceptance of science might remain challenged by persistent beliefs in unfounded ideas, such as mythical creatures. While science might not provide absolute truths, the recognition of its limitations and the value of other forms of wisdom could foster a more holistic understanding of the world. This scenario might bring society closer yet poses the risk of creating hierarchies where scientific knowledge holds undue power.
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