Risks and benefits of technological applications in times of climate emergency: citizens’ social perception, science enthusiasts, and civic engagement

Abstract

In this research note, we explore citizens’ perceptions of climate change and the risks and benefits associated with various technologies, attending to citizens’ interest in science and technology and their civic ecological engagement. We focus on technologies such as energy generation, medical experimentation and genetic modification, artificial intelligence, and work robotization, emphasizing the complexity of the socio-ecological dimension of contemporary society. Using data from the Science and Technology Perception Survey (EPSCT) 2022, we analyse the association between civic engagement activities, interest in science and technology, climate consciousness, and these technologies. Our findings indicate that citizens’ perceptions of technology risks and benefits are associated with civic involvement and interest in science and technology. Active participation in public debates, NGO activities, or expressive civic actions tends to be associated with more positive perceptions of technology benefits, independently of the higher risk generally associated with some of them, for example, nuclear energy. However, significative differences emerge when considering climate consciousness and the perception of technologies as risks, with science and technology enthusiasts and engaged citizens potentially shaping public perceptions differently. Activating socio-ecological civic engagement and cultivating scientific culture can play a role in persuading public opinion on the perceptions of technology risks and benefits, highlighting the need for inclusive and informed decision-making processes in addressing contemporary socio-technological and socio-ecological challenges, such as climate change.