Eurobarometer 73.1: The European Parliament, Biotechnology, and Science and Technology, January-February 2010

The Eurobarometer series is a unique cross-national and cross-temporal survey program conducted on behalf of the European Commission. These surveys regularly monitor public opinion in the European Union (EU) member countries and consist of standard modules and special topic modules. The standard modules address attitudes towards European unification, institutions and policies, measurements for general socio-political orientations, as well as respondent and household demographics. The special topic modules address such topics as agriculture, education, natural environment and resources, public health, public safety and crime, and science and technology. This round of Eurobarometer surveys covers: (1) knowledge, opinions of, policies, and values of the European Parliament (EP); (2) biotechnology; (3) science and technology. Technology questions pertain to knowledge, opinions, and effects of genetically modified food, nanotechnology, animal clothing, synthetic biology, and biobanks emerging in the next 20 years, as well as opinions on regenerative medicine, including stem cell research, resistance genes, bio-fuels, and global warming. Other questions address interest in, knowledge of, and engagement with science and technology, collaborative research across Europe funded by the EU, level of EU investment in research, young people's interest in science, and women's representation in scientific professions. Demographic and other background information collected includes age, gender, nationality, marital status, age when stopped full-time education, occupation, left-right political self-placement, political party attachment, household composition, religious affiliation and participation, ownership of a fixed or a mobile telephone and other durable goods, difficulties paying bills, level in society, and Internet use. In addition, country-specific data includes type and size of locality, region of residence, and language of interview (select countries).