Never Post Not What You Know, but How You Know: Science Communicators Roundtable
Mar 5, 2026
Joe Hanson, biologist and creator of Be Smart, Trace Dominguez, Emmy-nominated science host, and Alex Dainis, geneticist turned communicator, discuss science communication today. They talk about misinformation, prebunking versus debunking, emotional versus logical persuasion, community and identity’s role in belief, conversational outreach techniques, and the value of admitting uncertainty to build trust.
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Prioritize Explanation Over Constant Debunking
- Avoid producing pure debunk videos as a first tactic; audiences increasingly ask creators 'is this real?' and need context, not just takedowns.
- Alex Dainis says demand for verification surged and she now prioritizes explaining mechanisms (e.g., RNA) over constant debunks.
Belief Rigidity Comes From Social Identity Costs
- Changing your mind is socially penalized, so people lock beliefs to preserve identity and belonging.
- Trace Dominguez and Joe Hanson note communities reward consistency; showing scientists' reasoning for updates can model healthy change.
Ask Questions To Expose Weak Foundations
- Ask questions instead of stating facts when engaging skeptics; prompt them to reveal foundations of their beliefs.
- Trace recommends conversational probes to expose weak reasoning and invite reflection rather than confrontation.