Australians think doctors, scientists and farmers contribute the most to society and believe almost equally that priests, politicians and journalists are a detriment to our wellbeing.

But it's farmers, factory workers and tradies who do the most for us and get the least recognition for their work.

The Australian National University released the Australian Beliefs and Attitudes Towards Science report earlier this week. It showed Australians have a positive attitude towards science, but we have some interesting conflicts about the benefits scientists bring to our lives.

Most of us recognise that while some professions "contribute a lot to the wellbeing of society" they are not always viewed as prestigious. It's not surprising that while many people view doctors as more respected than tradespeople they also recognise both give a lot to society.