Britain is a self-proclaimed nation of curious thinkers – with 84 percent of adults claiming they are eager to learn. However, more than half (54 percent) feel their curiosity has “plateaued” over the last two years.
And a further third (31 percent) wish to be more inquisitive over life and its pleasures, with this rising to nearly half (46 percent) of Gen Z.
For those whose curiosity has stalled, the most common reasons for this are getting older (38 percent), or feeling an overload of information from the internet and media alike (24 percent).
The research of 2,000 adults found the top signs someone is a curious thinker are asking lots of questions (71 percent), being keen to learn (50 percent), and learning skills voluntarily (48 percent).
And when it comes to perception by others, curiosity is most commonly seen as being inquisitive (41 percent), imaginative (35 percent), and creative (34 percent).
To help inspire the nation, and encourage them to “re-wild” their curiosity, Hendrick’s Gin, which commissioned the research, has unveiled its “Curious Idols” on London’s South Bank.
A collective of three sculptures, each theatrical piece of art immortalises one of the inquisitive minds shaping this century, and is inspired by their passions and wonders.
Actress Patricia Allison, writer Alice Vincent, and the drag queen gardener, Daisy Desire, were chosen for their collective love of pushing boundaries and willingness to explore life.
Commenting on her Curious Idol installation, Patricia Allison said: “My love for theatre, film, and performance has always been a way for me to further my artistry, and deepen my curiosity about human nature and our surroundings.
“I’ve always loved having the freedom to explore different realms of self-expression, so I’m delighted that Hendrick’s new campaign focuses on that same curiosity within all of us, and has given me a wonderful opportunity to bring this feeling to more people in a somewhat meaningful and accessible format, to help inspire more self-reflection in our society.”
The research also revealed David Attenborough was voted as the most curious thinker of all time, followed by physicist, Professor Brian Cox.
Other household names that made the list include Gen Z rated film-maker Christopher Nolan, artist David Hockney, and author Dolly Alderton.
When it comes to these curious minds, the study, via OnePoll.com, uncovered that a third (33 percent) believe they should be celebrated.
And half of young people aged 18-34 feel they could learn how to be more confident (52 percent), and would feel more curious if they had inspirational role models (49 percent).
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Exactly half of the public are most curious about nature and people, alongside history (47 percent) and travel (46 percent).
But over three in ten (31 percent) would like to be more curious about things in general, and 40 percent think people should be encouraged to do this more often.
The poll also revealed 23 percent believe the internet has decreased the nation’s curiosity, as we have “the answers at our fingertips” – a belief most commonly held by people aged 18-34.
James Kenn, for Hendrick’s, which is displaying The Curious Idols from June 13-18, 2023, on Bernie Spain Gardens, said: “Curiosity can come in all shapes and sizes, but it’s that fundamental love of seeking out new thinking and experiences that unites our passion.
“It’s interesting as the research found nature has such a profound impact on the nation to explore – and likewise, the wonders of flora and pollinators is something that vastly inspires us at Hendrick’s Gin, and was even the inspiration behind our new limited-release gin, Flora Adora.
“With our Curious Idols, we want to help the public re-wild their curiosity, and start to embrace the importance of inquisitiveness within everything they do.”
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