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Although science communication only became a significant issue of public culture in the late 20th century—and has developed particularly rapidly in the past decade—its origins date back to the 17th century. The field emerged alongside the Royal Society in the United Kingdom, one of whose goals was to implement the “New Philosophy” for the protection of the kingdom—that is, applying theoretical science to practical life.
In the first half of the 19th century, the British Association for the Advancement of Science was founded. One of its aims was to draw attention to scientific subjects and to prevent any public disturbances that could hinder their progress. The establishment of this organization inspired the creation of similar associations in other countries, especially within the British Commonwealth, such as the USA, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, India, and Canada. One of the most significant outcomes of this movement was that science became a way to transcend class barriers in Britain. As a result of these efforts, major science museums were established, and faculties and colleges of science and technology were founded in universities. This led to a general acceptance of science as a key to personal and national growth and well-being.
The First World War encouraged the practical application of science and technology, creating a whole army of scientists and technologists. During the interwar period, this fueled a certain euphoria about the potential of science to solve all of humanity’s problems. The Second World War, however, dampened that enthusiasm. The use of atomic bombs caused public disillusionment with science, which had flourished over the previous 60 years. By around 1970, interest in scientific careers had waned worldwide and remained low until the turn of the millennium. Large museums were seen as repositories of past scientific achievements. Although they still attracted children’s interest, they failed to engage broader audiences. In 1969, the Exploratorium was opened in San Francisco, USA, with the aim of convincing the public that nature and humans—although full of undiscovered wonders—can still be understood and explained. This initiative laid the groundwork for the development of other science centers.
Subsequent plans and strategies to popularize science communication repeatedly failed due to the lack of a communication model that was easy for the public to understand. That changed in 2000, when the leaders of EU member states met at the European Council summit in Lisbon and adopted the Lisbon Strategy. The strategy emphasized that research, as a driving force of production and the use of knowledge, is the most important factor for achieving the established goals and for making Europe the most dynamic and competitive knowledge-based economy in the world—capable of maintaining sustainable economic growth, employment, and social cohesion. Among other topics, the summit actively discussed the general role and value of science in development. These activities paved the way for more active science communication, and more programs and organizations were created to bridge the gap between science and society.
Science communication has developed over a long period in the UK and around the world. It has fought against low interest in science through various means, but until recently, all efforts had failed. Including science communication in the European Union’s policy implementation agenda has finally provided it with a defined place and funding in both politics and practice.
