European trends in science communication

Abstract

This chapter reports on current trends in science communication in Europe in the light of several recent studies by the European Commission. The author investigates why the European public's scientific knowledge, as measured by the surveys, has increased substantially over the past few years. He then reviews coverage of science in the European media and analyses the relationships between European scientists and journalists and recent trends in reportage. Noting that it has become harder to gain public acceptance of scientific and technological innovations in Europe, the author argues that the science-society dialogue is insufficiently developed because a genuine communication culture is lacking in the science and technology sector. This lack may hamper the advancement of the sector. © 2008 Springer Netherlands.