We develop a method to assess population knowledge about any given topic. We define, and rationalize, types of beliefs that form the ‘knowledge spectrum’. Using a sample of over 7000 UK residents, we estimate these beliefs with respect to three topics: an animal-based diet, alcohol consumption and immigration. We construct an information-campaign effectiveness index (ICEI) that predicts the success of an information campaign. Information resistance is greatest for animal-based diets, and the ICEI is highest for immigration. We test the predictive power of our ICEI by simulating information campaigns, which produces supportive evidence. Our method can be used by any government or company that wants to explore the success of an information campaign.

我们开发了一种方法来评估有关任何给定主题的人口知识。我们定义并合理化形成“知识谱”的信念类型。通过对7000多个英国居民的抽样调查，我们从以下三个方面评估了这些信念：基于动物的饮食，饮酒和移民。我们构建了一个信息活动效率指标（ICEI），该指标可预测信息活动的成功。动物性饮食对信息的抵抗力最大，而移民对信息的抵抗力最高。我们通过模拟信息活动来测试ICEI的预测能力，这会产生支持性证据。任何想探索信息运动成功与否的政府或公司都可以使用我们的方法。