The University of Queensland

Understanding and overcoming public rejection of scientific innovation (2018–2021)

Abstract:

This project examines a new psychological construct that explains why some people resist scientific innovation, while others embrace it. The project will be the first to measure this new worldview dimension (Up-Down orientation), and the first to test whether scores on this dimension uniquely predict attitudes toward emerging technologies that promise to shape life in the 21st century (e.g., life extension technologies, artificial intelligence). These insights will be used to develop interventions to reduce resistance. Expected outcomes include new insights about how to communicate innovations most effectively to broaden their public appeal, providing benefits for maximising public uptake of innovations that deliver positive social change.

Grant type:

ARC Discovery Projects

Researchers:

• 

  Professor Matthew Hornsey

  Professor and ARC Laureate Fellow
  

  School of Business

  Faculty of Business, Economics and Law

Funded by:

Australian Research Council