those in positions of authority are seen as not practicing what they preach or enjoying benefits and exemptions not available to others.

The certainty and simplicity offered by populist leaders and conspiracy theories are far more appealing than experts' nuanced and tentative conclusions.

there have been far too many instances where experts and authorities have failed or misled the public.

Fix:

Experts and leaders have to shift their values toward transparency, honesty, and humility in their communications and actions, being upfront about the limitations and uncertainties of their knowledge, acknowledging mistakes and failures when they occur, and being open to feedback and critiques. [...] We need dialogue and engagement between experts and the communities they serve.