#265: Do You Even Science, Bro? Epistemic and Meta-Epistemic Practices in an Online Fitness Community

In the context of informal online engagement with scientific information, this study explored how a community of non-experts approaches knowledge from epistemically distinct sources. Using the AIR model of meta-epistemic reasoning as an analytical tool, we examined 363 Reddit comments discussing a biological phenomenon. A mixed-methods approach showed that over half of the comments mentioned sources of knowledge, mainly scientific authority or personal experience. Importantly, many comments demonstrated meta-epistemic reasoning by discussing goals, ideals, or processes for evaluating knowledge. Science was rarely challenged as an institution, but was critically examined for its relevance to real-life situations. Commenters also distinguished between “science” and “bro-science.” The findings portray laypeople as active epistemic agents who negotiate credibility and relevance within socially mediated environments. We conclude by suggesting that educators could use authentic reasoning practices, in which meta-epistemic discourse serves as a bridge between real-life experiences and scientific norms.