The public is somewhat more positive about the effects of government funding on research and practitioner recommendations.
Around six-in-ten Democrats support increased spending for scientific research, compared with 40% of Republicans, a gap that has grown over time.
The share of Americans calling global climate change a major threat to the U.S. has grown since 2013, an increase that has occurred largely among Democrats.
A strong majority of the American public thinks of science as having a positive effect on society, and most expect continued benefits to accrue from science in the years ahead.
About nine-in-ten Americans see research scientists as intelligent, while a smaller majority describe them as good communicators.
Most Democrats think scientists should take an active role in policy debates, while 56% of Republicans say they should focus on establishing sound scientific facts.
For example, about four-in-ten of those who used mail-in DNA testing say they were surprised by results for where ancestors came from.
Americans have broadly positive views of scientists and their work but are more tepid when it comes to trusting their competence, credibility and concern for the public interest.
Most Americans think sending astronauts to Mars or the moon should be a lower priority for NASA – or say it should not be done at all.
A majority of Americans see at least some effect of climate change where they live. Partisans differ over the effects of climate policies.
