Online sources and instant messaging have become the preferred sources for people seeking information about science, according to the Science Barometer SwitzerlandExternal link 2022 published by the University of Zurich on Wednesday.
Fifty-nine percent of respondents said they trusted science and research to a high or very high degree, the latest poll found.
That’s down from almost 67% at the end of 2020 and 56% the previous year.
The data shows that most people in Switzerland have a positive attitude towards scientific research, says project leader Mike Schäfer. “But our findings also make it clear [that] there are certainly people who remain sceptical,” he said in a press release.
Other sources
The survey also shows that the Swiss population’s sources of information have changed in recent years. The internet, notably websites and apps of established news media, is now clearly ahead of television and print media.
Instant messenger services such as WhatsApp or Telegram gained importance as sources of information during the pandemic. On the other hand, face-to-face and live formats such as exhibitions, lecture events or public discussions were less frequented, according to the survey.
The Science Barometer Switzerland is based on telephone surveys carried out every three years.
Switzerland commits CHF50 million to combat rural poverty worldwide
This content was published on
The Federal Council approved a contribution of CHF49.5 million ($54.1 million) for the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD).
Arrests made in raid against Turkish criminal organisation
This content was published on
A cross-border raid against a Turkish criminal organisation was conducted, including property searches in cantons Aargau and Zurich.
Up to 4,000 Swiss army soldiers to protect Ukraine peace conference
This content was published on
The Federal Council has authorised deployment of army personnel for the Ukraine peace conference on the Bürgenstock in June.
This content was published on
The business association, Swissmem, reports that there are increasing signs that the bottom of the downturn will be reached this year.
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.
Read more
More
Swiss trust science, says study
This content was published on
People in Switzerland have a positive view of science, with climate and energy considered the most important areas for research.
You can find an overview of ongoing debates with our journalists here . Please join us!
If you want to start a conversation about a topic raised in this article or want to report factual errors, email us at english@swissinfo.ch.