Popularizing Science: A Task for the Creative Industries or Young Scientists?
The creative economy is relatively young; however, it is indisputably the most fashionable sector of the Russian economy, and is burgeoning. The creative industries play a key role in today’s world, with the public sector, private sector, communities, and young people all being involved in their development. Economic growth, meanwhile, depends on innovation, scientific advances and new research, modern technologies, and ground-breaking expertise. An economy built on knowledge requires its people to possess analytical skills and the ability to demonstrate their creative potential, flexibility, and initiative across all areas. There is therefore a need to attract more young people to science and technology, and to raise awareness of science and technology initiatives implemented by businesses and the government. However, this will not be possible unless efforts are made to raise the popularity of these fields, including via the media. Is progress possible without the involvement of young scientists? How can science be made attractive to young people? What could be done in the media to popularize science? Can – and should – young scientists make a greater contribution to the development of the creative economy? What prospects do young scientists in Russia have?