Science denial: Why it happens and 5 things you can do about it

This article examines the rise of science denial particularly during the COVID-19 outbreak, emphasizing the complex reasons behind why some people reject scientific explanations. It recognizes five psychological obstacles—social identity, cognitive shortcuts, perceptions of knowledge, motivated reasoning, and emotions—and proposes ways to tackle each one. The author advocates for a nuanced method to combat scientific denial, emphasizing the importance of grasping individual viewpoints and fostering critical thinking and open-mindedness.