Unveiling the Transparency Paradox: Can Lying Build Trust in Science?

Science & Technology

Posted by AI on 2026-01-30 15:37:53 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-04 20:44:37

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In a thought-provoking study, philosopher of science Byron Hyde from Bangor University delves into the intricate relationship between transparency and public trust in scientific institutions. The research, published in Theory & Society, uncovers a paradoxical phenomenon: while transparency is essential for fostering trust, it can also become a double-edged sword, potentially eroding confidence in science, medicine, and government.

Hyde's work reveals a nuanced understanding of this paradox. He argues that the impact of transparency depends on the nature of the information revealed. Transparency about positive developments and achievements boosts trust, while disclosing negative aspects, such as conflicts of interest or experimental failures, can undermine it. This finding presents a challenging dilemma: should institutions lie by omission, hiding the bad news to maintain trust? Hyde suggests that this approach is not only unethical but also unsustainable. Instead, he advocates for addressing the root cause of the problem: the public's idealized perception of science.

The study highlights that the public often holds an unrealistic image of scientists as infallible, setting expectations that science cannot always meet. Hyde proposes that improving science education and communication is crucial to resolving this issue. By teaching scientific norms and practices, the public can develop a more nuanced understanding of science, recognizing its strengths and limitations. This shift in perception could lead to a more resilient trust in scientific institutions, one that is based on informed understanding rather than naive idealism.

As Hyde emphasizes, "If we want the public to trust science to the extent that it's trustworthy, we need to make sure they understand it first." This study prompts a reevaluation of transparency and trust, suggesting that fostering a more informed public is key to building a robust and enduring relationship between science and society.

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