About every ten people in Austria completely reject science. This value has largely remained the same in recent years, according to various studies. However, the Covid-19 pandemic has brought more attention to this topic.
Skepticism about vaccination and measures, but also hostility from researchers who had published the latest results about Covid-19 contributed to this. Education Minister Martin Polaschek (ÖVP) then commissioned the Institute for Advanced Studies (IHS) to investigate the causes of science and democracy skepticism in Austria. “Anyone who attacks science is also attacking democracy,” he said Monday. Scientific skepticism is a “threat to our free, democratic society.”
However, the research team managed to calm things down to some extent: the majority of the Austrian population has a positive attitude towards science and democracy. The available data do not confirm that Austria is one of the most scientifically skeptical countries compared to other EU countries, said study leader Johannes Starkbaum. He and his team reanalyzed the data from various studies and surveys and spoke with experts and the general public.
Climate change not caused by humans?
According to the study, anyone who thinks viruses were created in state laboratories to control humans is considered scientifically skeptical. Another example is the assumption that a cancer drug already exists, but is left out for commercial reasons. 23 percent or slightly more than every fifth person (21 percent) agreed with these statements. Relatively more people (31 percent) believe that climate change is mainly caused by natural cycles.
Here you can view the agreement with the requested statements in detail.
Science versus politics
Only one percent of respondents agreed with all statements. Especially young people, people with a low level of education, political rights and people who are dissatisfied with democracy or their own lives have little faith and skepticism in science. “People who identify parties as the biggest problem in the country, prefer direct referendums to representative democracy and want to see a strong leader at the top who is not constrained by parliament and elections and who only makes political decisions, rely less on science and while democracy is even more dissatisfied,” the study says.
Some respondents made little distinction between researchers and politicians.
Polaschek now wants to strengthen confidence
Starkbaum recommends an exchange between scientists and the public on an equal footing to allay the fear of contact. This commitment should also count towards a career in science. Polaschek announced innovative projects ‘to confront people in a more positive way with the world of science throughout society, beyond the school sector, to strengthen trust in science and thereby also trust in democracy.’ the daily life of all people.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
