The survey, "Science and Technology: Public Attitudes and Understanding," conducted in 2012, involved more than 2,220 Americans and was conducted by the National Science Foundation for the Science and Engineering Indicators report that is presented to the federal government.
“According to a new survey that focuses on public awareness and perceptions of science, research and scientists, only 74 percent of Americans that participated knew that the Earth orbits the sun. The survey also revealed a strong appreciation for the work of scientists while Americans continue to struggle to answer basic science questions.”
Actually, I’m surprised that 74% knew. Aren’t you?
About 30% Americans say that “dealing with global
warming” should be a priority for the president and
Congress. In recent years, dealing with climate issues
has been near the bottom of Americans’ list of
potential priorities.”
So guess what our President and Secretary of State are doing?
“. . . between 2000 and 2008, scientists represented just 1% of characters on prime-time network shows. Of these scientists, 7 out of 10 were men and almost 9 of 10 were white. 8% of the characters were medical.”
I’m thinking they aren’t counting the pathologists and archeologists in the the crime shows.
I’m not surprised that the Internet is increasingly becoming a source of information for scientific information.
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underrepresented minorities received 10 percent of S&E bachelor's degrees in 1989 compared to 17 percent in 2008. http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2011/02/110228151754.htm
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