The latest Eurobarometer survey on 'European citizens' knowledge and attitudes towards science and technology' released today shows more than 8 in 10 citizens (83%) think that the overall influence of science and technology is positive. Two-thirds of respondents (67%) equally agree that science and technology make our lives easier, healthier and more comfortable.
Respondents are most likely to think that renewable energies (87%), information and communication technology (79%) and vaccines and combatting infectious diseases (77%) will have a positive effect on our way of life in the next 20 years.
The survey shows that a majority of Europeans want to learn more about scientific developments (58%). Nonetheless, lack of time (40%), lack of interest (37%) and lack of knowledge in the field of science and technology (36%) remain significant hurdles in relation to public engagement with science and technology.
The survey also examined wider issues concerning trust and equity in science. Results show that 77% of respondents agree that science and technology should consider the needs of all groups of people when developing new solutions and products, while another 72% think that the government should take responsibility to ensure that new technologies benefit everyone. In parallel, a majority of citizens express some concern about the potential of scientific applications to threaten human rights (58% agree with the statement) and almost two thirds (64%) also believe that science and technology could help improve the environment and tackle climate change, but that they mostly help companies make money.
When it comes to sharing scientific results and engaging with the public, eight in ten (80%) agree with the statement that results of publicly funded research should be made available online free of charge, while more than six in ten (63%) agree that "involving non-scientists in research and technological development ensures that science and technology respond to the needs, values and expectations of society".
This year's survey included a focus on the use of artificial intelligence (AI) for scientific research, revealing mixed views among citizens in this regard. Just over a third of respondents (38%) say they trust scientific research and discoveries created with the help of AI, while a quarter (25%) distrust this type of research. However, half of EU citizens (50%) agree that AI used in science advances scientific discoveries that will lead to solutions to major challenges such as climate change and serious diseases.
To build on the interest of citizens and enhance public awareness of the EU's support for science and research and innovation, an EU communication campaign is set to launch in the first half of 2025. The campaign will showcase EU-supported research and innovation projects and their role in improving people's lives.
Background
Horizon Europe, the EU's research and innovation programme (2021-2027), reinforces interactions between science and society by promoting the co-creation of R&I agendas and by involving citizens and civil society directly in doing research and innovation.
Societal engagement in research and innovation is a priority area for joint action in the EU under the Pact for R&I in Europe, and the engagement of citizens and stakeholders is at the core of the European Research Area Policy Agenda, helping to enhance societal impact and trust in science.
EU-wide surveys on science and technology stretch back four decades. Previous relevant Eurobarometer studies include Special Eurobarometer 516 (2021), Special Eurobarometer 401 (2013), Special Eurobarometers 340 / 341 (EB73.1), and Special Eurobarometers 224 / 225 (EB63.1).
