Doctors top the charts, politicians lag behind when looking at global trust.
New research by Ipsos from 2021 sheds light on who we trust the most – and the least – on a global scale. The findings reveal some interesting trends, with professions dedicated to health and education taking the top spots.
The Trusted Few
Doctors reign supreme, with a whopping 64% of respondents expressing trust in this profession. This comes as no surprise, as doctors play a vital role in safeguarding our health and well-being.
Scientists follow closely behind with 51% trust, highlighting the public’s appreciation for their role in research and development.
Rounding out the top three are teachers, trusted by 43%, underscoring the value placed on education.
The Skeptical Lens
Perhaps unsurprisingly, politicians fared the worst, with a net trust score of -52%. This suggests a significant global skepticism towards political figures.
Government ministers (-39%) were not much better off, indicating a general distrust in leadership.
The business world also saw some low scores, with bankers (-11%) and advertising executives (-22%) falling short in the trust department.
Interestingly, ‘ordinary people’ managed a net trust score of 27%, suggesting a sense of connection with those we encounter in everyday life.
Regional Variations
While these trends hold true globally, it is important to note regional variations.
Countries like Malaysia and India displayed higher levels of trust in politicians, while Argentina and Columbia showed the most skepticism.
This highlights the influence of cultural and political contexts on trust perception.
Building Bridges of Trust
The Ipsos findings offer valuable insights for various professions. Understanding where trust lies – or does not – can help in building stronger relationships with the public.
Doctors and scientists can leverage their trusted positions to communicate effectively. Politicians and other figures with lower trust scores may need to focus on transparency and accountability to rebuild public confidence.
Ultimately, trust is the cornerstone of a functioning society. By understanding these global trends, we can work towards fostering a world where trust is the norm, not the exception.
