The Science-Media Interface: Interactions of Scientists and Journalists

Abstract

In a “media society”, the science-media interface is crucial for effective science communication. Two German mail surveys of scientists and journalists show a co-orientation, but also systematic differences between both professional groups with respect to interaction-relevant expectations. In particular, scientists and journalists disagree about who should control media content. Nevertheless, the surveys prove a high satisfaction of scientists and journalists about their contacts with each other. It is unclear whether this result is limited to Germany and the thematic fields analysed (risk issues and global climate change). More cross-national and cross-thematic research is required in order to complete our understanding of the science-media interface