System trust refers to the extent to which individuals believe in the fairness and reliability of the

systems and structures that make up their society, such as the legal system, the educational
system, and the healthcare system. Trust in these systems is crucial for the functioning of a
society, as it enables individuals to rely on these systems to provide for their needs and protect
their rights.

According to a study by Edelman in 2021, system trust has been declining globally. The survey
found that only 53% of people worldwide trust businesses to do what is right, and only 38% trust
the government to do what is right. This lack of trust can lead to increased skepticism about the
motives and actions of these systems and can make it more difficult for individuals to engage
with them.

One factor that can contribute to declining system trust is inequality. A study by the World
Economic Forum in 2020 found that countries with higher levels of income inequality tend to
have lower levels of trust in institutions. This may be because individuals in more unequal
societies feel that the systems and structures in place do not work for them and are more likely to
be biased against them.

Another factor that can influence system trust is transparency. When systems and structures are
transparent and open about their operations and decision-making processes, individuals are more
likely to trust them. For example, a study by the Pew Research Center in 2021 found that 75% of
Americans believe that judges should be required to disclose the reasons for their decisions,
which can increase transparency and trust in the legal system.

Moreover, the COVID-19 pandemic has put additional pressure on system trust. According to a
survey by Ipsos in 2021, 57% of people worldwide do not trust their government to manage the
pandemic effectively. This lack of trust can make it more difficult for governments to implement
effective public health policies and can lead to increased public resistance to measures like
vaccine mandates.

In conclusion, system trust is critical for the functioning of a society, but it is not always present.
Factors like inequality and lack of transparency can erode trust in institutions, while transparency
and effective management can build trust. The COVID-19 pandemic has further highlighted the
importance of system trust in public health policies.

Sources:

● Edelman. "Edelman Trust Barometer 2021." 2021.

https://www.edelman.com/trust/2021-trust-barometer
● World Economic Forum. "Why trust in institutions is vital for a thriving society." 2020.
https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2020/01/trust-in-institutions-society-democracy/
● Pew Research Center. "Most Americans believe judges should disclose reasons for their
decisions." 2021.
https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2021/03/05/most-americans-believe-judges-shoul
d-disclose-reasons-for-their-decisions/
● Ipsos. "Global attitudes towards COVID-19 vaccines." 2021.
https://www.ipsos.com/en/global-attitudes-towards-covid-19-vaccines