Organized Science Denial. An Action Plan for Solutions

Science denialism - fuelled by mis/disinformation - is a global existential crisis that erodes social cohesion and our collective capacity to confront crises like climate change, transform energy systems, and curtail pandemics. Despite scientific breakthroughs, denialism appears to be not only persisting, but accelerating. Research on the causes, consequences, and cures most often focus on individual-level denial. Yet science denialism is not exclusively caused by individuals' biases or lack of knowledge, which is addressed with more/better education, but also by other more contextual causes. Thus, even if we could talk to one person at a time, we will never reverse this denialist tide. Missing is a systematic examination of the role that organizations play for diagnosing the sources and levels of science denialism, understanding the tactics used, and strategizing effective solutions. Organized Science Denial addresses these urgent questions: Why and how do doubts in science persist in society? What is the role of organizations and institutions in science denialism? And which strategies can organizations implement to effectively mitigate this global and collective issue? To answer these questions, the editors bring insights on science denialism from an array of internationally renowned management scholars. The book leverages socio-psychological and organizational theories, examines the roles of organizations and institutions in both perpetuating and combating denialism, and creates innovative solutions.