Vices of superiority and mistrust in science: the case of climate change

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Juan R. Loaiza

Abstract

How can we explain distrust in science in cases where there is scientific consensus? In this article, I argue that considering our attitudes toward knowledge and vices of intellectual superiority can offer novel dimensions of analysis beyond understanding distrust in science as a case of ignorance. To do this, I analyze the case of distrust in anthropogenic climate change, and I argue that some of the evidence can be interpreted as evidence of vices of superiority playing a role in the lack of acceptance of scientific consensus. I conclude that science education and communication must therefore focus not only on transmitting information, but also on fostering collaborative attitudes and intellectual virtues to address distrust of science and promote greater acceptance of scientific consensus.

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How to Cite
Loaiza, J. R. (2026). Vices of superiority and mistrust in science: the case of climate change. Revista Austral De Ciencias Sociales, (50), 39–56. https://doi.org/10.4206/rev.austral.cienc.soc.2026.n50-03
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