WHEN COVID-19 vaccines saved millions and provided relief from the pandemic, I believed this would serve as powerful ammunition for science communication. While the vaccines had flaws, they offered the best option available then, and their benefits far outweighed the risks. With this in mind, I turned to TikTok, my new social media tool, to educate the public about activism and class action lawsuits, and significant challenges for emerging technologies. I also discussed the usual rare side effects of medications and medical procedures.
I hoped my video would alleviate fears and instill scientific understanding among the public. However, I was mistaken. Despite my 20+ years of experience as a science communicator, the comments challenged me. Public perception of science is taking a turn for the worse, marked by a strong trust deficit. We are living in an era of post-trust, post-expertise, and post-truth, exacerbated by anti-corporate sentiments.
