This report examines the American public’s perceptions of the relationship between science and religion and the views of religious groups across a range of science-related topics. The bulk of the analysis relies on data from a representative sample of 2,002 adults nationwide surveyed by landline and cellular telephone in August 2014. Some analysis from other Pew Research Center surveys is included where there is relevant data.
This analysis is the last in a series; the first report, based on the same sample, compared a survey of the general public with a companion survey of American members of the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS). A further analysis looked at the underpinning of the general public’s views about science-related topics based on their political and ideological outlooks, their level of education and science knowledge, their religious affiliations and differences associated with various demographic factors.
Other follow-up reports focused on data from the survey of AAAS members to explore the ways in which scientists interact with citizens and journalists and their reasons for doing so. A further elaboration of AAAS members’ views on science-related topics was issued earlier this year. The surveys were conducted in collaboration with the AAAS. Pew Research Center bears all responsibility for the content, design and analysis of both surveys.
This report is a collaborative effort based on the input and analysis of the following individuals. Find related reports online at https://www.pewresearch.org/topics/science-and-innovation/
Lee Rainie, Director Internet, Science and Technology Research Cary Funk, Associate Director, Research Becka A. Alper, Research Associate Brian Kennedy, Research Associate Alan Cooperman, Director Religion Research Gregory A. Smith, Associate Director, Research Sandra Stencel, Associate Director, Editorial Monica Anderson, Research Analyst Maeve Duggan, Research Associate Kenneth Olmstead, Research Associate Andrew Perrin, Research Assistant Dana Page, Senior Communications Manager Margaret Porteus, Information Graphics Designer Aleksandra Sandstrom, Copy Editor Shannon Greenwood, Assistant Digital Producer
