Just read this article last night...

Trust Me, I'm a Scientist - Why so many people choose not to believe what scientists say

By Daniel T. Willingham

excerpt:

"In a 2008 survey by the National Science Foundation, more respondents expressed “a great deal” of confidence in science leaders than in leaders of any other institution except the military. On public policy issues, Americans believe that science leaders are more knowledgeable and impartial than leaders in other sectors of society, such as business or government. Why do people say that they trust scientists in general but part company with them on specific issues?"

Full article at:

http://www.scientificamerican.com/article.cfm?id=trust-me-im-a-scientist

• Trust Me, I'm a Scientist