Authors

• Kiljunen, Pentti (Yhdyskuntatutkimus)

Keywords

attitudes, ethics, ethics of science, institutions, mass media, research, science, scientific development, scientific progress, scientists

Abstract

The survey studied Finnish public opinion and expectations on scientific information, ethics of science, the advantages and disadvantages of scientific and technological development, and various other aspects of science and research.

The respondents rated their interest in following certain subjects in the media (e.g. culture and arts, sports, economy, politics), and interest in scientific and research issues (e.g. science generally, medicine, information technology, space research). The importance of various information sources on science and scientific development were evaluated. The respondents were asked to name one present-day and one former prominent Finnish scientist, as well as an invention or accomplishment of Finnish science. The survey charted trust in various institutions: Parliament, the church, trade unions, the media, armed forces, universities, the European Union, etc. Views were probed on how well certain aspects of science (e.g. scientific independence, ethical issues, science funding, usefulness of science to everyday life) have been taken care of in Finland. The respondents were asked whether science can solve certain problems or help mankind (e.g. find a cure for AIDS or cancer, raise the standard of living, eradicate hunger from the world, promote peace).

The survey carried a set of attitudinal statements on science and research. Statements covered, for example, brain drain and brain gain, scientific information in the media, alternative medicine, relationship between science and religion, vivisection, genetic engineering, use of scientific information in decision-making, science funding and its allocation, science policy, impact of scientific and technological development, climate change, and ethical issues.

Background variables included the respondent's gender, age group, size of the municipality of residence, region of residence, basic and vocational education, field of study, and occupational group.