This podcast argues that many scientists do not communicate science effectively and offers suggestions for improving communication.

Oftentimes scientists assume the public shares their values about science and therefore presents scientific information in ways that may seem at odds with people’s values when they are really not. Communication must be tailored to different audiences and desired outcomes. To get people to change behaviors, it is important to use strategies that are most appealing and often involve more than simply presenting facts. It is important to recognize that the media are not translators or cheerleaders of science and therefore scientists must clearly communicate their patterns of evidence. Scientists need to recognize their changing role in public discourse and understand their responsibility to communicate science effectively.