What happens when you invite an academic scientist and a non-scientist member of the public to talk to each other one-to-one about environmental issues? In a pilot study, researchers from the University of Newcastle investigated the potential of facilitated one-to-one conversations on important ethical or policy issues between two people from very different backgrounds as a forum for mutual learning. "Our research suggests that this simple format may have the potential to promote trust and break down stereotypes," states researcher Dr Derek Bell.
Over six months, six members of the public took part in six one hour exchanges with six scientists (each member of the public met each scientist once) on different topics such as genetic modification, climate change and energy. All of the scientists, particularly those who viewed science as easily understandable rather than difficult to explain, were able to build a sense of rapport and trust with the non-scientists. And, while these 'deliberations' did not produce any disagreement, they did produce reflection. "Such oneto-one exchanges may play an important role in a democratic society as a 'safe' forum that promotes trust, facilitates cooperative reflection and encourages a citizenly orientation to issues," Dr Bell concludes.