EPISODE · Feb 10, 2026 · 15 MIN
Between Self-interest and Public Welfare – the Role of Policy Advisors
from Digital Governance · host Klaus Heine; Erasmus University Rotterdam
The article investigates the complex relationship between academic experts and the political sphere, highlighting how scientific policy advice is often hindered by a lack of empirical consensus and a prevailing reproduction crisis in research. Moving beyond the ideal of objective guidance, the authors apply an economic lens to reveal that both politicians and advisors are frequently driven by self-interest, seeking to maximize their own power, prestige, and income rather than serving the public good. The text argues that modern social media has transformed researchers into communication instruments, where a scholar's personal brand is used by officials to legitimize predetermined agendas rather than to foster genuine evidence-based reform.For the link of the publication of the article mentioned above, please click here.
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