The Science of Why We Don't Believe Science

11/13/2013

This article by Chris Mooney delves into the issue of science denial and the various factors that contribute to it. It discusses the phenomenon of motivated reasoning, where individuals form beliefs based on their desired outcome rather than objective evidence. Mooney explores how political ideology, cultural identity, and religious beliefs can play a role in shaping people's perception of science. He also examines the strategies used by those who deny scientific consensus, including cherry-picking data and promoting false controversies. Ultimately, the article aims to shed light on the complex issue of science denial and the potential consequences it has on public discourse and policymaking.

climate change ꞏ science denial ꞏ anti-science ꞏ skepticism ꞏ pseudoscience ꞏ scientific evidence ꞏ climate skepticism ꞏ climate denial ꞏ science communication ꞏ science journalism ꞏ environmental politics ꞏ scientific consensus ꞏ misinformation ꞏ disinformation ꞏ cognitive biases ꞏ confirmation bias ꞏ motivated reasoning ꞏ political ideology ꞏ science education ꞏ climate science ꞏ public opinion ꞏ science literacy ꞏ misinformation campaigns ꞏ media bias ꞏ climate policy ꞏ climate activism ꞏ anti-intellectualism ꞏ climate communication ꞏ scientific research ꞏ climate denialism ꞏ misinformation tactics ꞏ science denialism ꞏ conspiracy theories ꞏ scientific knowledge ꞏ scientific method ꞏ scientific inquiry ꞏ climate change denial ꞏ climate change skepticism ꞏ politics of science ꞏ science policy ꞏ climate change controversy ꞏ scientific integrity ꞏ climate science denial ꞏ media influence ꞏ intellectual discourse ꞏ critical thinking ꞏ climate change misinformation ꞏ climate change communication ꞏ climate science communication ꞏ science and politics