Research from Leiden University reveals that two-thirds of people know little about quantum technology, despite its potential impact on medicine, cybersecurity, and communications. Studies show that clear explanations improve actual understanding even when they reduce confidence, while framing quantum as mysterious or using metaphors has no measurable effect. Effective public communication should broaden coverage beyond quantum computing to include nearer-term applications like quantum sensing and communication, and should address risks alongside benefits to enable informed democratic participation in quantum technology decisions.
Table of contents
Start With Why Public Engagement MattersExplain the Weird — But Don’t Oversell ItThe ‘Mysterious’ Frame Isn’t a Silver BulletBroaden the Story Beyond Quantum ComputingTalk About RisksSort: