In the age of social media and constant information flow, it is becoming increasingly difficult to distinguish knowledge from opinion and authority from mere popularity. As a result, the importance of genuine authorities is fading — a trend clearly visible in science. Societies are gradually losing their common points of reference: the individuals and institutions that for decades served as guides and inspiration. The initiators of the “Master and Apprentice” competition aim to remind the public how crucial this intergenerational relationship is — not only for the future of science, but also for the arts.
“We are lacking true authorities. As a society, we are assigning less and less importance to them — which is a mistake, because for many years they were a compass in difficult life situations as well as in strictly professional areas — such as medicine, art, culture and beyond,” says Prof. Piotr Suwalski, MD, Director of the State Medical Institute of the Ministry of the Interior and Administration, in an interview with Newseria.
According to the Edelman Trust Barometer 2025, trust in traditional institutions — governments, media and opinion leaders — has been steadily declining. As many as 70% of respondents worldwide believe that political, business and media leaders “deliberately mislead the public.” Over the past four years, global trust in governments has dropped by 12 percentage points, and trust in media by 8 points. As a consequence, the influence of so-called online authorities is rising — individuals who gain impact through internet activity. Popularity and visibility are increasingly valued above expertise or experience. This shift is particularly visible in scientific and medical communities. The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated how easily false information can overshadow scientific facts — and rebuilding the credibility of experts requires long-term, consistent communication.
“In science, authority is indispensable. We seek objective truth, whether it is difficult or easy. This Enlightenment ideal should guide true science — and this is where the concept of authority fits perfectly. It represents trust and direction: it keeps us anchored in scientific truth while, through the scientist’s personal example, showing that the values of research — the pursuit of truth — must be honoured and protected. Science is not only about results, but also about ethical conduct and fundamental human values,” says Prof. Suwalski.
Eurobarometer data shows that while 83% of Europeans have a positive view of science’s impact on daily life, more and more people struggle to assess the credibility of sources. The Wellcome Global Monitor confirms that trust in scientists remains high — 72% of people globally say they trust science and those who represent it. However, researchers stress that communication style now matters more than ever — respondents are more likely to trust scientists who can explain research clearly and accessibly. Authority is no longer granted automatically by title or institution — it depends increasingly on the ability to engage in dialogue.
“I have met many people whom I consider not only absolute authorities in their fields, but also models of character and life attitude — and I believe this may be even more important. In my professional life, I had the privilege of working with Prof. Friedrich Mohr in Leipzig — an outstanding cardiac surgeon and a mentor who could inspire, build teams and support others, even in personal matters. For me, he was an example not only in medicine, but in life,” Prof. Suwalski adds.
This is where the value of the master–apprentice relationship returns — a foundation of scientific and artistic development for centuries. Its form is evolving today — with more dialogue and cooperation, and less hierarchy. Yet its essence remains unchanged: the transmission of knowledge, values and character.
“Of course the concept of master and apprentice evolves. But we want to highlight the universal values that endure through centuries — the profound importance of forming this bond, of becoming a master and passing on one’s knowledge and attitude, and equally the opportunity and challenge of becoming an apprentice,” says Prof. Suwalski.
The nationwide “Master and Apprentice” competition — organised by the State Medical Institute of the Ministry of the Interior and Administration — aims to promote these values. It features several categories that reward both individual achievements and joint intergenerational projects demonstrating how collaboration between age groups advances science, culture and education. The awards will go to individuals and teams who combine passion with responsibility and a willingness to inspire others. The competition will conclude with a gala at the Royal Castle in Warsaw on 29 October 2025. PZU is the project’s strategic partner.
“The ‘Master and Apprentice’ Gala was created to emphasise the universal role of this relationship — the shared values and common ground across disciplines. We want to have a conversation not only about values in medicine, but also in art, music and other areas,” explains one of the event’s initiators.
The master–apprentice dynamic is crucial beyond academia as well. In culture, sports and education, growth is born from trust and shared experience. The modern master does not dominate — but accompanies, helping the student discover their own path.
“Every great artist, athlete or professional we spoke to immediately acknowledged how vital the master–apprentice relationship was at some point in their life — how it shaped teamwork, leadership and collaboration. It is a unifying force across all fields,” Prof. Suwalski emphasises.
Intergenerational exchange allows intuition and experience to meet fresh perspective. Young researchers bring boldness and innovation; older mentors offer stability and risk awareness. In laboratories and institutions worldwide, this cooperation is increasingly becoming the driver of breakthrough ideas.
“This relationship can unlock something entirely new and inspiring. From my own experience, I can say I have often been profoundly inspired by my younger students — their perspective opened my eyes to issues that later became starting points for important scientific pursuits,” concludes Prof. Suwalski.
