Why do people believe everything scientists say?

Question

I mean, for every study out there there is one that contradicts it, so why do people jump on to certain ones?

Answer 1

I don't know who "people" are, but I teach science and I don't agree with a lot of things that are said. As for the studies, some people have WAY too much time on their hands and the people that jump on their bandwagon are just looking for a leader...lol

Answer 2

People don't beleive everything scientists say. Also many 'studies' aren't done by scientists, but often by marketing people. Such things as clinical trials can have little real science or scientific valure.

People though, take any evidence that gives them hope and will hang on to it with the expectation that it will help them as well. Those suffering and seeking relief from pain, depression, sleeplessness, etc. are willing to do almost anything to feel better.

Too, much evidence for certain things is supressed. Many natural remedies are shunned by the medical community. People would rather pay a great deal of money for a dieuretic, when a common, safe and natural alternative exists.

In the end, it isn't the belief in what scientists say, but rather the grasping on to whatever brings them hope and / or comfort. If it sounds credible, then even better.

Answer 3

Logic.

Scientists argue all the time... They all operate on logic, but they're all taking different variables into account, and dismissing certain things which they believe produce a negligable result and do not influence the outcome.

Much of the time though certain theories will be accepted as true by the majority because it simply makes more sense than the alternatives... i.e. its more consistant with established views and is more able to be reproduced in experiment and practically applied to real situations.

Sometimes there is only one overwhelming theory... Sometimes its lopsided but there are multiple theories. Sometimes matters are so hitherto unknown that multiple theories may be given equal weighting until undetermined variables can be resolved to provide a clearer solution and favour one theory.


But to remark on your very question itself: They don't. Scientists frequently do NOT believe everything other scientists say. There is no why because the condition it applied to is invalid.

Answer 4

Wrong, for every 100 studies there might be a few that contradict if you are talking about established theories.

Other than that, we follow scientists becuase a major factor of science is that it is allowed to change as new data is discoverd. Unlike other schools of thought...

Answer 5

Because (sometimes) research provides an answer. Remember, closed minds never learn.

Answer 6

99% of all statistics are made up. The other 1% don't count.

Answer 7

The search for a quick answer.

Answer 8

I don't know but hey, they haven't said that god exists and enough people believe in him!

Answer 9

because they like the answer, or it serves their purpose in some way.

Answer 10

question authority, especially psychiatrists.........