Traditionally, the ‘scientist’ identity has been one associated with detachment and objectivity; a necessarily impartial observer conducting research without political affiliation. Therefore, science and activism have often been seen as opposite ends of a spectrum, with activism being discouraged within the scientific community to maintain the integrity of scientific investigation.

However, with climate change becoming a more pressing issue amongst both the scientific community and the public, there is increasing evidence of support for scientific activism both from the public and within academia itself. Senior Research Associate Samuel Finnerty, alongside Dr Jared Piazza and Professor Mark Levine – all from Lancaster’s Psychology Department - have been investigating this shift in the scientist’s social identity, and how it impacts on a person’s desire to engage in climate activism. The team questioned over 300 scientists from 41 countries about both the strength of their identification as a scientist and as an activist, their involvement with activist groups such as Extinction Rebellion and Greenpeace, and whether they felt that identifying as both a scientist and an activist was compatible.

The responses to the team’s questionnaire highlighted the importance of how scientists perceive the fit between science and activism for how engaged they are with environmental activism. Specifically, scientists who have reconciled the values of science with activism, and perceive a moral duty to act, are more likely to engage in activism. Scientists who perceived science and activism to be less compatible were also more likely to endorse technology as the sole solution to the crisis rather than political activism.

Additionally, qualitative analysis of open text responses found that scientists construct their identities in a variety of ways which can either support or hinder activism. These results highlight a shift in how scientists see themselves and why understanding this transition is important for the actions they take.