Inside the evidence revolution — how decision-making became data driven

In this episode of Nature Hits the Books, host Benjamin Thompson interviews science journalist Helen Pearson about her new book, *Beyond Belief: How Evidence Shows What Really Works*. The conversation traces the rise of evidence-based decision-making across disciplines, from medicine to policing, parenting, and management. Pearson highlights the pivotal role of pioneers like Ian Chalmers and Archie Cochrane in advancing evidence-based medicine, particularly through the Cochrane Collaboration and systematic reviews. She explores how the movement, though relatively new—only formalized in the 1990s—has faced consistent resistance from entrenched practices and conventional wisdom. The episode also examines the broader application of evidence in fields like international development, education, and conservation, while acknowledging the challenges of generalizing findings across cultures and the limitations of relying solely on randomized controlled trials. Pearson emphasizes the importance of evidence synthesis, the dangers of misusing the term 'evidence' for political cover, and the need for systemic change, including education and accountability. Despite skepticism and misinformation, she remains an evidence optimist, advocating for critical thinking and practical 'evidence hacks' to empower individuals in a complex information landscape.