State of Science Index Survey
Our annual research shows that appreciation for science and trust in scientists has increased significantly in 2020, compared to past years.
Science skepticism declines for the first time in three years
“I am skeptical of science”:
Pre-Pandemic 35%
Pandemic Pulse 28%
There is an increased understanding of how important science is in our lives:
Science is very important to society in general:
up 11 points from pre-pandemic
Science is very important in my everyday life:
up 10 points from pre-pandemic
But challenges remain:
63%
rarely think about the impact of science in their everyday life
32%
still believe that their lives wouldn’t be that different if science didn’t exist
The world is united in following science to solve our biggest challenges
People’s actions should follow scientific evidence/advice to contain the spread of COVID-19.
There are negative consequences to a world that doesn’t value science.
Global priorities include healthcare, followed by social issues, sustainability and the economy
Dr. Kate Biberdorf, science communicator and Associate Professor of Chemistry at the University of Texas at Austin, talks about diversity & STEM equity in this year’s 3M State of Science Index
To address these ongoing global challenges, we must inspire the next generation to pursue STEM
About one in six people (17%) report being discouraged from pursuing science when they were students.*
But adult Gen Zers and Millennials are significantly more likely to report being discouraged.
Gen Z 28%
Millennials 24%
Gen X 15%
Boomers 9%
*Not including when they were students in college/university
Barriers to STEM education are holding students back
Why were students discouraged from pursuing STEM?
Lack of access to science classes is the leading reason.
One in four (27%) cite some form of inequality (race, ethnicity, gender)—and this surges to 50% in the US.
The pandemic has pulled into focus the urgency of STEM education
are now more likely to agree that a strong STEM education is crucial.
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Discover the primary themes of this year's State of Science Index.
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View and filter all data from the 2020 Surveys.
