ABSTRACT
This chapter is based upon analysis of 13 online focus groups conducted with members of the public in Northeast Ohio in the US between 2021 and 2023 on the topic of science, identity, and values. It presents data on the national picture in terms of demographics, politics, science, and religion. This leads onto consideration of how participants discussed religion and science. A picture of complementarity and separateness emerges, plus some perceived conflict. What is interesting is how much consensus emerges, across religious and non-religious identities. Some views expressed diverging from scientific consensus are then presented. In line with national patterns, these were rare in the focus groups, and enthusiasm for science much more common. These findings suggest taking care when interpreting survey responses and, perhaps, shifting attention to science enthusiasm, joy, and approval.
