Majority of Germans Believe Researchers Are Influenced by Funders

A recent survey reveals widespread skepticism about the independence of scientific research in Germany, highlighting concerns about political and economic pressures.

• 61% of respondents believe that researchers are influenced by economic funders, while 55% think political funders also exert control over research outcomes.
• 69% of those surveyed consider it likely that scientists face attacks, particularly online, for their research.
• 60% of participants suspect that journalists often distort scientific findings in their reporting.
• 40% of respondents feel that universities and scientific institutions dictate what scientists can communicate publicly.
• Despite concerns, 45% believe that scientific freedom is relatively well-preserved in Germany.

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