New 'science and the public' report

A new survey looking at the attitudes of nearly 2000 UK residents towards science has found that while most are 'amazed' by science, half of them believe that scientists do not stop and think about the implications of their work. The report, published jointly by the UK government's Office of Science and Technology (OST) and the Wellcome Trust, also found that two thirds of those interviewed agree that science and technology are making our lives 'healthier, easier and more comfortable'.

The survey identified concerns over the ability of society and the government to regulate science: over two-thirds agreed that rules will not stop scientists doing what they want 'behind closed doors'. But in general, the majority felt that scientists and engineers make a valuable contribution to society. The report concluded that there was a need for a national framework within which people could access information about new science, allowing them to assess its implications.