The latest Eurobarometer survey on “European citizens’ knowledge and attitudes towards science and technology” shows more than 8 in 10 citizens (83%) think that the overall influence of science and technology is positive. Two-thirds of respondents (67%) 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%).
The survey also examined wider issues concerning trust and equity in science. 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%). 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.
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.
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.
