Lorraine Williamson
Despite an overall high regard for scientists and research, a troubling number of Spaniards still believe in conspiracies that undermine the very foundations of modern science. In fact, 4 in 10 Spaniards believe governments create viruses to control the population — a stark indicator of how deeply mistrust and misinformation continue to shape public opinion, even in a country where science and its practitioners are largely respected.
That’s the key contradiction exposed by Spain’s latest national survey on public attitudes toward science and technology — a wide-reaching report based on more than 4,500 interviews, conducted by the Ministry of Science and the Spanish Foundation for Science and Technology (FECYT).
The results paint a complex picture: Spaniards respect science, support public investment in research, and overwhelmingly back climate action. But beneath the surface lies a deep well of suspicion — particularly when it comes to governments, pharmaceutical companies, and artificial intelligence.
Respect for science doesn’t stop misinformation
Around 76% of Spaniards say they trust science, with 86% viewing scientists as knowledgeable and over 60% seeing them as working for the public good. Yet only a third feel researchers communicate in a way that is accessible and clear.
This communication gap is a breeding ground for misinformation. And the data proves it: 41% of respondents believe governments create viruses to curb civil liberties. Nearly a third think the cure for cancer is being kept hidden to protect financial interests. One in four still believes in a disproven link between vaccines and autism.
Even more striking is the dramatic rise in vaccine scepticism. In just four years, the number of people who believe pharmaceutical companies are concealing vaccine risks has more than doubled, from 24% in 2020 to 54% in 2024.
AI: Innovation or invasion?
Artificial intelligence is another area where fear and fascination collide. While many Spaniards are intrigued by its potential, significant anxiety remains. Four out of ten worry about privacy in an AI-driven world. Nearly one-third are uneasy about increasing dependency on technology. And 70% expect AI to take over human jobs within the next decade.
More than a quarter believe governments could use AI to manipulate the population. Another 17% fear private tech giants even more. For many, AI is less a tool and more a ticking time bomb — capable of revolutionising life but also eroding autonomy and democracy.
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Climate change unites public opinion
One area where consensus is strong is climate change. A resounding 81% of Spaniards view it as a serious threat, and 70% recognise human activity as the primary driver. Encouragingly, nearly 40% believe that climate policies will ultimately improve their quality of life — a rare vote of confidence in long-term environmental strategy.
A call for more investment — and inclusion
The public’s message to policymakers is clear: science matters, but it must be transparent, inclusive, and socially relevant. Over 80% want the Spanish government to increase investment in science. Similar support extends to private companies and regional authorities.
Accessibility also matters. Nearly 80% believe publicly funded research should be available to all. And two-thirds support investment in fundamental research, even if immediate practical benefits are not obvious.
Crucially, citizens are calling for science that serves the common good — not just economic interests. They want clearer communication, more ethical oversight, and stronger connections between research, policy, and society.
Government responds with €14.5 million science outreach plan
Acknowledging the disconnect, the Spanish government has committed €14.5 million to strengthen public engagement in science. The funding will go toward science communication initiatives, open-access research platforms, and projects that bring citizens into closer contact with the scientific world.
Juan Cruz Cigudosa, Secretary of State for Science, framed the investment not just as a tool for transparency but as a way to reshape the relationship between researchers and the public. “Society is not just asking for answers, but also for engagement,” he said.
Can trust overcome the noise?
Spain’s scientific institutions enjoy solid public support. But that trust is fragile — increasingly tested by misinformation, digital echo chambers, and fears of overreach by both states and corporations. Whether the new measures will be enough to counter the growing allure of conspiracy remains to be seen. What’s clear is that bridging the gap between expertise and empathy has never been more urgent.