The Misinformation Paradox

The State of Science in America: What the Data Reveal

Based on a Harris Poll of 2,023 U.S. adults, February 4-6, 2026

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

According to a Harris Poll survey of 2,023 US adults conducted February 4-6, 2026, 86% of Americans believe false and misleading information about science and health is a bigger problem now than five years ago.

The Paradox

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.

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.

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.

Bayer partnered with The Harris Poll to commission this independent research because we believe the conversation about science, trust, and misinformation needs real data - not just opinions.

Here's what that partnership looked like:

• Bayer funded the research; The Harris Poll designed the methodology, survey, and analysis and conducted the research independently.
• Results were not shared with Bayer until after data collection was complete.
• The Harris Poll maintains full editorial control over findings and interpretation.

At a moment when:

Trust in scientific institutions is eroding, especially among young adults

Questions about US scientific leadership are intensifying

Misinformation about many topics, including health and agriculture, is spreading rapidly...

...we wanted to understand what Americans actually think - beyond the loudest voices on social media channels.

Transparency matters. Bayer is a science-based company that develops agricultural and health innovations. We have a vested interest in a society that values evidence-based research and trusts the scientific process.

These findings aren't flattering to any single institution or industry. The data shows widespread frustration, confusion, and declining trust - in companies and institutions and individuals.

We commissioned this research because we believe:

Better data leads to better solutions

Public support for science matters

Transparency builds credibility

This isn't about defending Bayer. It's about understanding the information environment that affects everyone who depends on scientific progress.

The Harris Poll is one of the most respected polling organizations in the world, with over 60 years of experience conducting independent research. Their methodology is rigorous, transparent, and widely trusted across industries and political perspectives.

The full methodology, sample size, weighting procedures and margin of error are available in the complete report.

This survey was conducted online by The Harris Poll on behalf of Bayer among 2,023 US adults, February 4–6, 2026. The Harris Poll designed and conducted the research independently, maintaining full editorial control over methodology and findings.