America remains a scientifically ignorant nation for two reasons: the resurgence of fundamentalist religion during the past 40 years, and secondly, the low level of science education in American elementary and secondary schools, as well as many tertiary colleges.
Yes, it is really phenomenal with cheap computers and the Internet everywhere.
The technology does not determine the quality of information. But we are bombarded with so many random tidbits of data without coherent pictures. That is the nice thing about good SF stories. Each story presents an entire pattern. But junk with sonic screwdrivers is useless.
But our educational system is really an education business. Dribble out info so kids spend lots of time in school.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0wk4qG2mIg
Now that is Educated!
psik