A new imperative: connecting science, society and policy via social media

The classic position of science advice in the past was simple: it is sufficient to convince the decision-makers to reach reasonable development. This position has substantially changed as decisions cannot be made against the will of the majority. It is thus necessary to convince society. The experience from advice during COVID-19 adds more features to this picture. It is necessary to communicate complexity and uncertainty, to make clear that these are intrinsic features of contemporary times, and to explain to both policymakers and public that we have to accept that knowledge rapidly improves and that scientists may have different opinions. To do so, a new imperative is simple: Occupy social media with facts, adequate interpretation, and explanations of how our world functions.

Presenter:

Tarmo Soomere is mathematician and marine scientist, since 2014 the President of the Estonian Academy of Sciences. His scientific interests are mostly concentrated to the analysis and mitigation of marine hazards and preventive methods of coastal protection. He has received twice the national science award and state decoration of 3rd class White Star order for developing coastal science in Estonia. A highly unusual distinction for a scientist came from society: he was declared the Person of the Year in Estonia 2005 by daily newspaper The Postman for his contribution to the forecast of a devastating storm.