The role of science in its relentless search for the truth is a key pillar in society that protects and promotes democracy, transparency and rationality as the basis of actions of the state.

In his Michael Faraday Prize Lecture, Professor Abdool Karim will analyse the threats to science globally, with a focus on the USA, where he argues disinformation has become institutionalised in the corridors of power. As those in power use the levers of the state to accumulate wealth and yet more power, truth becomes a major obstacle and science, as the rational approach to seeking the truth, becomes the casualty and as custodians of science universities come under attack. In this situation, effective science communication is more important than ever.