Selected thinking
Articles, research, and conversations exploring how scientific information becomes credible and useful.
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The science of credibility
Justin joins Dr. Elizabeth Schwab to explore how stakeholders evaluate scientific information and its sources.
CRA · Forum summary featuring Justin O'Rourke · June 2026
Challenging the conventional wisdom of Field Medical strategy
CRA discusses research conducted with Justin and its implications for how Medical Affairs teams approach engagement, trust, and field capability.
CRA · Research coverage · April 20, 2026
Building trust with skeptical physicians
Justin examines how MSLs can address skepticism and communicate trustworthiness through expertise, transparency, reliability, and attention to physicians’ needs.
The MSL Journal · Article by Justin O’Rourke, PhD ("The Cynic in the Clinic")
Trust in government agencies falters
Justin considers how credible scientific exchange and trusted professional relationships can help MSLs respond to misinformation and uncertainty.
The MSL Journal · Article by Justin O'Rourke · November 28, 2025
Physicians’ trust in Medical Science Liaisons and willingness to act on scientific information
A cross-sectional survey of 135 physicians treating rare and orphan diseases examined perceived MSL trustworthiness and physicians’ stated willingness to act on scientific information. Greater perceived trustworthiness was associated with greater willingness to act. The study measured self-reported willingness, not observed prescribing or clinical behavior, and does not establish causation.
Doctoral dissertation · Justin O’Rourke · The Chicago School · 2026