Science Is Underappreciated, Says Global Study By 3M

Science needs a champion, this is the conclusion that American multinational science firm, 3M, has come to following analysis from its first annual State of Science Index (SOSI), a global study exposing the general population’s attitudes towards science. At first glance, results from the study suggest sentiment towards science is overwhelmingly positive: half of respondents believe flying cars will become a reality within their lifetime and 87 percent characterise science as fascinating, not boring.

However, upon further inspection, the survey reveals many people are unaware of the impact science has on their lives: almost 40 percent believe everyday life would not be much different if science did not exist. A pattern of scepticism around science also prevails. The study found that almost one-third of the global population is sceptical of science, and 20 percent distrust scientists.

The independent, 14-country State of Science Index was commissioned by 3M, and conducted by Ipsos, a global market research firm. The study explores the image of science around the world. Respondents were asked about their knowledge, understanding and appreciation of science, as well as questions about the image and future of science.

“We set out to get a pulse on what the general public thinks and feels about science and its impact on the world. Is science valued and trusted, or is it unappreciated?” said Mr. John Banovetz, Chief Technology Officer at 3M. “These rich insights put a spotlight on science and reveal differences in attitudes between emerging and developed countries, men and women, and even cross-generation. The world is becoming more technologically advanced every day and science is driving those technology breakthroughs. We hope that by making the survey data available and accessible, we will inspire science champions and future scientists everywhere and bring a greater appreciation of science to the world.”

Optimism for the future of science

Despite scepticism and a general misunderstanding about science, excitement for the future of scientific advancements is high. When asked about what they believe science will achieve in their lifetime, the top responses included robots in every workplace (64 percent), robots in every home (55 percent) and flying cars (51 percent). Additionally, there were expectations for undersea living (41 percent) and inhabiting Mars (35 percent), all within our lifetime.

Overall, the study found that emerging countries are more optimistic about future scientific advancements than respondents from developed countries. Emerging countries are much more likely to think flying cars (58 percent emerging vs. 43 percent developed) and controlling the weather (43 percent vs. 22 percent) would be possible in their lifetime.

“Even great scientific advancements are the product of multiple discoveries over years of work,” said Mr. Banovetz. “If students think that only geniuses can have a career in science and people remain indifferent to science, how can we thrive as a society and continue to innovate? To secure a better future we need to be vigilant about helping people understand all the incredible opportunities and innovations science has brought us, as well as the dedication, rigor and investment it takes to achieve those results,” he added.