What political debates can teach us about explaining science

Political communication has changed dramatically since then. It relies on repeating a small number of clear messages, soundbites and narratives.

Political speeches didn’t get shorter because ideas became simpler. They got shorter because it has become harder to hold people’s attention, due to far more channels and far more noise to compete with.

In 2026, this same challenge exists in healthcare and science. Complex information is everywhere, but time and attention are limited. If attention isn’t earned, even the most important science can go unheard.

With science, detail is fundamental. We cannot communicate complex pathways through a series of soundbites alone. The challenge is not to reduce the science, but to create a way in – to make it accessible. This is where storytelling can make a difference.

Done well, storytelling captures attention and creates connections. It grounds information in real human context — a patient, a clinician, an unmet need — and gives audiences a reason to want to understand more.

When communication starts with mechanisms or data, audiences are asked to work before they are invested. When it starts with a story, curiosity does the work for them. The science then becomes the answer to a question the audience already wants answered.

If we want scientific ideas to travel, resonate, and influence decisions in healthcare, we need to tell better stories — stories that invite attention, respect expertise, and allow complexity to unfold at the right pace.

In healthcare, communication is not just about explaining science. It is about helping people connect with why that science matters.

If you are working to communicate complex science in healthcare, we would love to help you craft the stories that can bring it to life.