Science denial can kill. So how can we change people’s minds? At a time when science is under attack, this question has never mattered more.

If you met a science denier in person would you know what to say? Facts don’t convince people, so what does? After 20 years studying science denial from his desk, philosopher of science Lee McIntyre went on the road to talk to Flat Earthers, climate change deniers, and others, about their beliefs. He joins How To Academy to teach us how we can effectively argue with science deniers, and why it is so important to do so.

Drawing on academic research and his own experience—including attending a Flat Earth convention— McIntyre will outline the common themes of science denial, and offers tools and techniques for communicating the truth and values of science, emphasising that the best way to reach someone is through personal engagement, which fosters the possibility of building trust through empathy and respect. People are not convinced by facts; they are convinced by facts that are shared by people they trust.