Dr. Noc Promotes Science Engagement on Social Media Amid Misinformation

During the Covid-19 pandemic, frustration over rampant misinformation led Morgan McSweeney, a holder of a Ph.D. in pharmaceutical sciences and innovation, to take action by creating an online persona known as Dr. Noc. With a commitment to providing engaging, evidence-based health information, Dr. Noc has garnered a following of over 4 million people across various social media platforms. His content ranges from explanations of biological processes, such as how urine is produced, to critical analysis of controversial health topics, including the potential links between Tylenol use during pregnancy and autism.

In a recent discussion on the inaugural episode of the new season of the First Opinion Podcast, Dr. Noc shared insights into his motivations for joining the social media landscape. He emphasized the importance of reaching a broader audience rather than merely reinforcing the views of those who already agree with him. “It would be really, really easy if my goal is to get as big numbers as I can and as many followers and as much reach,” he stated. “What I would do is speak passionately to people who already agree with me, really rile them up about the other side. The problem … is you’re not changing people’s minds at that point, you’re just making them emotionally engaged.”

Bridging the Gap in Science Communication

Dr. Noc’s approach focuses on engaging individuals who are open to new information but may not have firmly established opinions on various health topics. He believes there is a significant need for a diverse range of science communicators and researchers to contribute to this crucial discourse. “I’m never going to speak to everyone. And this is why I think we need a much greater diversity of science communicators and researchers and experts making content from the get-go,” he remarked.

His vision for effective science communication centers around fostering dialogue rather than inciting division. By targeting those who occupy the middle ground, he hopes to provide accessible information that can facilitate understanding and informed decision-making.

As an advocate for responsible communication, Dr. Noc’s contributions have become increasingly relevant in a landscape marked by competing narratives and misinformation, especially in health-related discussions. His recent essay for First Opinion delves deeper into the responsibilities of scientific voices in the digital age and highlights the importance of cultivating trust with audiences.

Listeners can explore more of Dr. Noc’s insights and perspectives on engaging with science through the First Opinion Podcast, available on platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify. For those interested in staying updated on new episodes, signing up for the First Opinion Podcast newsletter is encouraged.

Dr. Noc’s journey embodies a proactive response to misinformation, showing how social media can serve as a powerful tool for education and engagement in the field of science.