A Pew Research Poll says that most Americans believe in science and believe scientists are trustworthy, reliable, accurate, and probably saving our lives. However, the same survey shows that more than half of all Americans choose to believe the scientists are wrong in areas where the science contradicts their biases.
The poll, released yesterday, shows that this poo-pooing of scientists crosses political lines; for instance, we're all aware of the preponderance of data supporting evolution. While 98% of scientists support this, only 65% of the public supports evolution.
But liberals shouldn't feel smug: 88% of the members of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) support eating genetically modified food, but only 37% of the general public agrees.
This is one of the reasons the lack of quality public education is such a dangerous thing.
Also why zombies, vampires, and the Koch brothers are so trendy these days.
But it's not completely depressing; a new poll conducted by the New York Times, Stanford University, and the non-profit Resources for the future indicates that two-thirds of Americans support doing something about climate change. That two-thirds includes 48% of all Republicans.