A survey conducted by the Morrison Institute for Public Policy at Arizona State University has found that the average Arizona resident believes science and technology research can help drive the state's economy.

In the first in-depth survey of Arizonans' attitudes towards science, technology, and the economy, 87 percent of those who responded said that they believe developments in science and technology contribute to the creation of new high-paying jobs.

"Regardless of location, income, education, or gender, Arizonans are positive about science and technology and convinced that science and technology will deliver on high-paying jobs, personal benefits, and solutions to tough environmental and social problems," the report states. "Arizonans 'get' the benefits of a science and technology-based future and the power of science and technology to spawn desirable employment opportunities.

The statewide telephone survey sampled 793 Arizonans from a broad range of income and education levels and political affiliations. About 41 percent were between the ages of 35 and 54, about 24 percent earned between $25,000 and $44,900 per year, and about 40 percent had some college education but did not graduate.

Specifically, of those surveyed:

• 84 percent say science and technology are important to the state's economic development;
• 90 percent say it is important for the Arizona to develop national and international leadership in science and technology
• 84 percent say science is as important as, or more important than, reading, writing, and math as part of a good education.

To access the report, visit: www.asu.edu/copp/morrison/SciSurFNL.pdf

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For more information:

Morrison Institute for Public Policy

"Survey: Arizonans see value of science," Arizona Republic, 06/18/2006