The Misinformation Crisis: The Problem is Getting Worse

86% of Americans believe false and misleading information about science and health is a bigger problem now than five years ago.

The Paradox:

• 75% get science and health information from social media at least monthly
• 80% blame social media for spreading misinformation
• 75% of those who share health and science articles do so based on headlines alone, without reading them

The Result: A rapid, unchecked cycle where misinformation spreads faster than facts, leaving Americans angry (83%) and worried about the well-being of themselves and their families (82%).

The Trust Gap: A Generation Growing Up Skeptical

Among 18–34-year-olds:

• 48% blame medical doctors for spreading science and health misinformation
• 43% blame scientists for spreading science and health misinformation
• About 1-in-5 distrust doctors (16%) and scientists (20%) for science and health information

More young adults would trust a friend with "first-hand experience" (80%) than they would trust scientists (75%).

With misinformation rampant on social media, an entire generation may be less likely to trust the experts on science and health.

Are We Falling Behind?

• Only 19% of Americans believe the US currently leads China in scientific research.
• 33% believe we're already falling behind China in scientific research.

Yet 90% agree the US should play a leading role in global scientific research. And should government not be able to fund scientific research, Americans primarily pointed to businesses (23%) to step in.

The Good News? Bipartisan Consensus on Science's Value

Despite deep political divisions on many issues, Americans across party lines agree, science is necessary and important for the country’s future.

The foundation is there. The challenge is cutting through the noise. A challenge with a clear opportunity.