Can we trust our political institutions? And how is that trust—or distrust—shaped over time? In this episode of Talk That Science, we sit down with Hannes Bey and Giovanni D’Agostino, PhD candidates in the Challenges to Democratic Representation research group at the University of Amsterdam, to explore the complexities of political trust. Giovanni investigates how young citizens develop trust or distrust in political institutions, while Hannes examines long-term trends in political trust at the macro level.

We discuss how political trust is measured, what drives its decline, and how researchers determine when distrust becomes ‘critical’ or ‘blind.’ Giovanni walks us through his research on 14-year-olds and generational trends in trust, while Hannes sheds light on the gap between actual political trust and public perception. We also explore how education can both strengthen and divide democracies, shaping the way different groups relate to political institutions. And, of course, all of this is accompanied by some thought-provoking tracks!

Tracks played during the episode include:

Ho Visto Un Re – Enzo Jannacci

The Mess We’re In – PJ Harvey

What Did You Learn in School Today – Pete Seeger

Hosts: Amity & Bronagh

A big thanks to the Student Impact Center of the University of Amsterdam for financing our show and to EchoBox Radio for hosting us! Tune in for a timely discussion on political trust, democracy, and the factors shaping public perception today.