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Publication Detailed Description
Preaching to the converted? An analysis of the UK public for space exploration
Journal Title
Public Understanding of Science
Year (definitive publication)
2013
Language
English
Country
United Kingdom
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Abstract
This article presents the results of a survey carried out at two space outreach events in the UK aimed at characterising "the public for space exploration" and measuring public support for space exploration. Attitude towards space exploration and policy preferences were used as measures of public support. The sample involved 744 respondents and was mainly composed of adults between 25 and 45 years old, with men slightly over-represented compared with women. Findings revealed that males appeared to be stronger supporters than females - men had a more positive attitude towards space exploration and stronger space policy preferences. Because mixed groups tend to come together to such events we argue that male respondents would be more likely to be part of the "attentive" and "interested" public who come to outreach activities and bring a less interested public with them.
Acknowledgements
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Keywords
Gender and science,Political support for space exploration,Public attitudes,Public opinion,Science communication,Science outreach events,Space exploration
Fields of Science and Technology Classification
- Psychology - Social Sciences
- Media and Communications - Social Sciences
- History and Archeology - Humanities
- Other Humanities - Humanities
