Dynamic development of public attitudes towards science policymaking

Area of Science:

• Social Sciences
• Science and Technology Studies
• Public Policy

Background:

• Effective public engagement in science and technology policymaking requires understanding diverse public attitudes.
• Public opinion significantly shapes policy development and implementation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To categorize the general public based on their engagement with science and technology policymaking.
• To identify key factors influencing public attitudes and engagement levels in science and technology policy.

Main Methods:

• Utilized 2011 public opinion survey data from Japan (n=6,136).
• Employed multivariate regression analysis to examine predispositions and socio-demographic characteristics.
• Categorized the public into Attentive, Interested, and Residual groups based on engagement levels.

Main Results:

• Identified distinct public categories: Attentive (active engagement), Interested (moderate interest, expert reliance), and Residual (minimal interest).
• Key predispositions towards science and technology and socio-demographic factors significantly influence shifts between these public categories.
• Found specific characteristics that differentiate individuals' willingness to engage in science and technology policy dialogue.

Conclusions:

• Understanding public attitude heterogeneity is crucial for developing effective science and technology policymaking engagement platforms.
• Findings provide a basis for fostering more accountable and evidence-based science and technology policies.
• Tailored engagement strategies can be developed based on identified public categories and influencing factors.