Why should citizens of this world be scientifically literate?

There are a lot of reasons including the need for a more sophisticated work force; a need for more scientifically literate consumers, especially when it comes to purchasing electronics; and, equally as important, a scientifically literate electorate who can help shape public policy.  Now more than ever before, science and technology issues are at the center of national debates. To make informed decisions, voters need to have an understanding of issues like stem cell research, global warming, the citing of nuclear waste facilities, just to name a few.  Can an illiterate democracy survive?  Thomas Jefferson, third president of the United States and author of the Declaration of Independence, famously noted that "Information is the currency of democracy."1, 2