Specific Programme "Capacities": Science in society SCIENCE IN SOCIETY 'Science in Society' aims to bridge the gap between science professionals and those without aformal science education and to promote a taste for scientific culture in the public at large. Someof the initiatives, therefore, are aimed at triggering the curiosity of young people for science andat reinforcing science education at all levels.What's the benefit for citizens:While science and technology has an increasing influence on our daily lives, it may appear to beremoved from the daily concerns of a large part of the public and of policy makers. Contentiousissues relating to emerging technologies should be addressed by society on the basis of wellinformeddebate leading to sound choices and decisions. Therefore, another key issue is theencouragement of societal dialogue on research policy; stimulating civil society organisationsto become more involved in research; debating and promoting shared values, equalopportunities and societal dialogue.What's the benefit for researchers:The initiative undertaken in the field of 'Science in Society' will provide support to issues suchas strengthening and improving the European science system. This includes "self regulation"and the development of a policy on the role of universities. The role of research based inuniversities and their engagement in the challenges of globalisation will be strengthened.The continuation and further expansion of gender research is foreseen, including the integrationof the gender dimension in all areas of research.Special attention will go to improving communication between the scientific world and the wideraudience of policy-makers, the media and the general public. This would partly be achieved byhelping scientists and media professionals to work closer together.Further efforts will be made to set landmarks for an ethically sound research endeavour in thelight of fundamental rights. Initiatives will be undertaken to improve governance of the Europeanresearch and innovation system.What's the benefit for industry and SMEs:By stimulating young people to take on science studies, industry's personnel needs might bebetter supported in the longer term. The progress of women in scientific careers will bepromoted, along with the better use of their professional and scientific talents.Ethical frameworks for research activities together with an open-debate culture on research andits place in society, will be reinforced in order to enhance the trust of citizens in industrialresearch activities.