Indians have ranked doctors (57%), armed forces personnel (56%), and teachers (56%) as the most trustworthy professions. These rankings are expected. These professions played essential roles during the COVID-19 pandemic. Frontline workers consistently went above and beyond the call of duty to serve the nation.
Doctors risked their lives to treat COVID-19 patients. Armed forces personnel maintained security at the borders. Teachers ensured that education continued through online classes despite the challenges. These professions have long been admired for their commitment and ethical standards. Their transparency has cultivated a high level of trust among the Indian population, says a IPSOS Survey.
Beyond doctors, armed forces, and teachers, a range of other professions also earned significant trust from Indian citizens:
- Scientists (54%)
- Judges (52%)
- Bankers (50%)
- Ordinary men and women (49%)
- Police officers (47%)
Interestingly, restaurant staff (47%), taxi drivers (46%), and government employees/civil servants (46%) were also highly trusted by the public. This reflects a broader appreciation for essential workers who serve in everyday capacities, contributing to the functioning of society.
GLOBAL TRUST RANKINGS: DOCTORS, SCIENTISTS, AND TEACHERS LEAD THE WAY
Globally, doctors (58%), scientists (56%), and teachers (54%) topped the list of the most trusted professions. These professions are trusted due to their significant roles during the pandemic. Scientists developed vaccines. Doctors risked their lives treating patients. Teachers ensured remote learning during lockdowns. These professions’ ability to adapt and serve the global population during times of crisis has bolstered their trustworthiness.
Amit Adarkar, CEO of Ipsos India, explained the findings, stating, “Trust is built over time through experience and perception. The Indian public has a deep faith in doctors, armed forces personnel, and teachers. Their exemplary ethical standards instill this faith. They show unwavering commitment to their work, especially during the pandemic.”
He added, “These professions went beyond the call of duty. Doctors treated patients despite personal risks. Armed forces personnel safeguarded the nation’s borders. Teachers ensured that education continued online, often at great personal cost.”
THE MOST DISTRUSTED PROFESSIONS IN INDIA
While certain professions earned significant trust, others ranked much lower on the list. The least trusted professions in India, according to the survey, include:
- Politicians (31%)
- Cabinet officials/government ministers (28%)
- Clergy/priests (27%)
These professions have been tainted by instances of corruption and scandals, leading to a widespread distrust among the Indian populace. Despite efforts to reduce corruption, like digital payments aimed at reducing bribery, public perception remains skeptical.
GLOBAL DISTRUST RANKINGS: POLITICIANS AND INFLUENCERS LEAD THE WAY
On the global stage, politicians (58%) are the most distrusted profession. Social media influencers follow closely with a distrust level of 56%. Government ministers also have a distrust level of 50%. The distrust of politicians is especially high in Colombia (74%). It is also high in Chile (73%) and Argentina (73%). Political corruption scandals have damaged the public’s confidence in their leaders in these countries.
Social media influencers have a growing presence in modern culture. Despite this, they are among the most distrusted in markets like Sweden (71%), Belgium (70%), and France (70%). This trend points to a growing skepticism about the authenticity of online content. People question the influence these individuals have on public opinion.
