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Ramos PD, Almeida MS, Olsson IAS. What do people think about genetic engineering? A systematic review of questionnaire surveys before and after the introduction of CRISPR. Front Genome Ed 2023; 5:1284547. [PMID: 38192431 PMCID: PMC10773783 DOI: 10.3389/fgeed.2023.1284547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
The advent of CRISPR-Cas9 in 2012 started revolutionizing the field of genetics by broadening the access to a method for precise modification of the human genome. It also brought renewed attention to the ethical issues of genetic modification and the societal acceptance of technology for this purpose. So far, many surveys assessing public attitudes toward genetic modification have been conducted worldwide. Here, we present the results of a systematic review of primary publications of surveys addressing public attitudes toward genetic modification as well as the awareness and knowledge about the technology required for genetic modification. A total of 53 primary publications (1987-2020) focusing on applications in humans and non-human animals were identified, covering countries in four continents. Of the 53 studies, 30 studies from until and including 2012 (pre-CRISPR) address gene therapy in humans and genetic modification of animals for food production and biomedical research. The remaining 23 studies from after 2013 (CRISPR) address gene editing in humans and animals. Across countries, respondents see gene therapy for disease treatment or prevention in humans as desirable and highly acceptable, whereas enhancement is generally met with opposition. When the study distinguishes between somatic and germline applications, somatic gene editing is generally accepted, whereas germline applications are met with ambivalence. The purpose of the application is also important for assessing attitudes toward genetically modified animals: modification in food production is much less accepted than for biomedical application in pre-CRISPR studies. A relationship between knowledge/awareness and attitude toward genetic modification is often present. A critical appraisal of methodology quality in the primary publications with regards to sampling and questionnaire design, development, and administration shows that there is considerable scope for improvement in the reporting of methodological detail. Lack of information is more common in earlier studies, which probably reflects the changing practice in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pedro Dias Ramos
- i3S–Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- ICBAS–Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Maria Strecht Almeida
- ICBAS–Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Ingrid Anna Sofia Olsson
- i3S–Instituto de Investigação e Inovação em Saúde, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
- ICBAS–Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Suresh A, Abera S, Mandefro A, Konwarh R, Haregu S, Adugna AT, Benor S. Survey of attitude towards biotechnology among the members of an Ethiopian university fraternity. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, INNOVATION AND DEVELOPMENT 2022; 14:821-831. [DOI: 10.1080/20421338.2021.1906506] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Arumuganainar Suresh
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Addis Ababa Science and Technology University, Ethiopia
- Department of Biological Sciences and Biotechnology, Institute of Advanced Research- The University for Innovation, India
| | - Solomon Abera
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Addis Ababa Science and Technology University, Ethiopia
- Centre of Excellence- Bioprocess and Biotechnology, Addis Ababa Science and Technology University, Ethiopia
| | - Ayele Mandefro
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Addis Ababa Science and Technology University, Ethiopia
- Centre of Excellence- Bioprocess and Biotechnology, Addis Ababa Science and Technology University, Ethiopia
| | - Rocktotpal Konwarh
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Addis Ababa Science and Technology University, Ethiopia
- Uniglobe Scientific Pvt. Ltd., India
| | - Simatsidk Haregu
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Addis Ababa Science and Technology University, Ethiopia
| | - Amare T. Adugna
- Centre of Excellence- Bioprocess and Biotechnology, Addis Ababa Science and Technology University, Ethiopia
- Department of Environmental Engineering, College of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Addis Ababa Science and Technology University, Ethiopia
| | - Solomon Benor
- Department of Biotechnology, College of Biological and Chemical Engineering, Addis Ababa Science and Technology University, Ethiopia
- Office of Science and Research Affair Director General, Ministry of Science and Higher Education, Ethiopia
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Li L, Bautista JR. Examining Personal and Media Factors Associated with Attitude towards Genetically Modified Foods among University Students in Kunming, China. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2019; 16:ijerph16234613. [PMID: 31757100 PMCID: PMC6926896 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph16234613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2019] [Revised: 11/11/2019] [Accepted: 11/15/2019] [Indexed: 12/05/2022]
Abstract
Guided by the theory of reasoned action and media system dependency theory, this study examined attitude towards genetically modified foods (GMF) among university students in Kunming, China, as well as personal and media factors related to such attitude. Data were collected from an online survey with 467 university students across eight universities in Kunming. Results showed that attitude towards GMF were more negative than positive. Moreover, food neophobia and media attention were negatively associated with attitude towards GMF. In contrast, perceived benefit was positively associated with attitude towards GMF. Although the interaction between media dependency and media attention was significant, simple slope analysis confirmed that the interaction slopes were nonsignificant, suggesting that media attention did not moderate the association between media dependency and attitude towards GMF in this study. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Li
- School of Journalism, Yunnan University, Kunming 650000, China
- Correspondence:
| | - John Robert Bautista
- School of Information, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78701, USA;
- Center for Health Communication, Moody College of Communication, The University of Texas at Austin, Austin, TX 78712, USA
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Ali S, Ghufran M, Nawaz MA, Hussain SN. The psychological perspective on the adoption of approved genetically modified crops in the presence of acceptability constraint: the contingent role of passion. GM CROPS & FOOD 2019; 10:220-237. [PMID: 31684804 PMCID: PMC6927704 DOI: 10.1080/21645698.2019.1680241] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Revised: 10/11/2019] [Accepted: 10/11/2019] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
This study contributes to the literature on genetically modified crops by examining the impact of psychological distance on farmer adoption. The existing body of literature suggests that some farmers have the conservative perception to adopt genetically modified crops because of controversies regarding the side effects and profitability. To understand these social problems, we have relied upon construal-level theory which argues farmer passion about dynamics like here and now, likely or unlikely and the near or far from self are vital for the adoption of approved genetically modified crops. The data for the present study collected from three Asian countries through questionnaire, for China 300, India 350, Philippines 300 valid responses collected. The study founds a positive relation of psychological distance based on passion with farmer trust behavior to adopt genetically modified crops over time. The findings of the present study provide new insights into the development of farmer acceptability and encourage the use of novel crop technologies.Abbreviations: GM, genetically modified; TD, temporal distance; SPD, Spatial distance; SD, Social distance; TB, trust behavior; AGMC, Approved Genetically modified crops; CLT, Construal Level Theory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sumran Ali
- School of Public Affairs, University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, China
| | - Muhammad Ghufran
- Department of Economics and Law, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | - Muhammad Asim Nawaz
- Lyallpur Business School, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
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Mathur V, Javid L, Kulshrestha S, Mandal A, Reddy AA. World Cultivation of Genetically Modified Crops: Opportunities and Risks. SUSTAINABLE AGRICULTURE REVIEWS 2017. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-319-58679-3_2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/06/2023]
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Veličković V, Jović M, Nalić E, Višnjić A, Radulović O, Šagrić Č, Ćirić M. Knowledge, Attitudes Toward, and Acceptability of Genetic Modification among Western Balkan University Students of Life Sciences (AGREE Study). J Am Coll Nutr 2016; 35:150-60; quiz 161-2. [PMID: 26030071 DOI: 10.1080/07315724.2014.1003115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There are still no data on the attitudes and acceptance of genetic modification (GM) food in European developing countries, such as the Western Balkan countries. The aim of the study was to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and acceptance of GM but also to shed light on the multifactorial process leading to acceptance of genetic modifications among Western Balkan students of life sciences. METHODS In this cross-sectional study, the final study population sample was composed of 1251 university students. The instrument for data collection was a questionnaire consisting of 49 items composed of 5 sections taken from the literature. Attitudes toward GM were analyzed by using Q-mode factor analysis and principal component analysis was run for the assessment of perception of personal health risks. The acceptability of GM was analyzed in binary probit models assessing the acceptability of GM products in different areas of application with Q models, sociodemographic variables, perception of personal health risks factors, respondents' knowledge about biotechnology, gender, and age as explanatory variables. RESULTS This study demonstrated that students of life sciences supported the implementation of GM in industry and medicine production but not in food production. Their acceptance was most influenced by 3 out of 5 attitude models that were identified (p < 0.0001). Regarding the perception of personal health risks, the factor "credence risks" was seen as a negative predictor of acceptance of GM in industry and food production (p < 0.05). The main knowledge predictor of rejecting GM was misconception, whereas real knowledge had no impact (p < 0.0001). CONCLUSION The AGREE study provided the first rough picture of the knowledge, attitudes, and acceptance of GM in this area. Given the target population, it could be expected that the general population's acceptance of all observed elements, especially knowledge, would be lower.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Marko Jović
- b Department of Histology and Embryology,Faculty of Medicine, University of Niš , Niš , SERBIA
| | - Ena Nalić
- c Faculty of Agriculture and Food Sciences, University of Sarajevo , Sarajevo , BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
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Attitudes in China about Crops and Foods Developed by Biotechnology. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0139114. [PMID: 26418161 PMCID: PMC4587862 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0139114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2015] [Accepted: 09/08/2015] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Transgenic Bt cotton has been planted in China since 1997 and, in 2009, biosafety certificates for the commercial production of Bt rice and phytase corn were issued by the Chinese government. The public attitude in China toward agricultural biotechnology and genetically modified (GM) crops and foods has received considerable attention worldwide. We investigated the attitudes of consumers, Bt cotton farmers and scientists in China regarding GM crops and foods and the factors influencing their attitudes. Data were collected using interview surveys of consumer households, farmer households and scientists. A discrete choice approach was used to elicit the purchase intentions of the respondents. Two separate probit models were developed to examine the effect of various factors on the choices of the respondents. Bt cotton farmers had a very positive attitude because Bt cotton provided them with significant economic benefits. Chinese consumers from developed regions had a higher acceptance and willingness to pay for GM foods than consumers in other regions. The positive attitude toward GM foods by the scientific community will help to promote biotechnology in China in the future. Our survey emphasized that educational efforts made by government officials, the media and scientists can facilitate the acceptance of GM technology in China. Further educational efforts will be critical for influencing consumer attitudes and decisions of government agencies in the future. More effective educational efforts by government agencies and public media concerning the scientific facts and safety of GM foods would enhance the acceptance of GM crops in China.
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Mohr P, Golley S. Responses to GM food content in context with food integrity issues: results from Australian population surveys. N Biotechnol 2015; 33:91-8. [PMID: 26348278 DOI: 10.1016/j.nbt.2015.08.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2015] [Accepted: 08/31/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
This study examined community responses to use of genetically modified (GM) content in food in the context of responses to familiar food additives by testing an empirically and theoretically derived model of the predictors of responses to both GM content and food integrity issues generally. A nationwide sample of 849 adults, selected at random from the Australian Electoral Roll, responded to a postal Food and Health Survey. Structural equation modelling analyses confirmed that ratings of general concern about food integrity (related to the presence of preservatives and other additives) strongly predicted negativity towards GM content. Concern about food integrity was, in turn, predicted by environmental concern and health engagement. In addition, both concern about food integrity generally and responses to GM content specifically were weakly predicted by attitudes to benefits of science and an intuitive (i.e., emotionally-based) reasoning style. Data from a follow-up survey conducted under the same conditions (N=1184) revealed that ratings of concern were significantly lower for use of genetic engineering in food than for four other common food integrity issues examined. Whereas the question of community responses to GM is often treated as a special issue, these findings support the conclusion that responses to the concept of GM content in food in Australia are substantially a specific instance of a general sensitivity towards the integrity of the food supply. They indicate that the origins of responses to GM content may be largely indistinguishable from those of general responses to preservatives and other common food additives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Mohr
- School of Psychology, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia 5005, Australia.
| | - Sinéad Golley
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) Food and Nutrition Flagship, PO Box 10041 Adelaide BC, South Australia 5000, Australia.
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Boëte C, Beisel U, Reis Castro L, Césard N, Reeves RG. Engaging scientists: An online survey exploring the experience of innovative biotechnological approaches to controlling vector-borne diseases. Parasit Vectors 2015; 8:414. [PMID: 26259589 PMCID: PMC4530488 DOI: 10.1186/s13071-015-0996-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2015] [Accepted: 07/09/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pioneering technologies (e.g., nanotechnology, synthetic biology or climate engineering) are often associated with potential new risks and uncertainties that can become sources of controversy. The communication of information during their development and open exchanges between stakeholders is generally considered a key issue in their acceptance. While the attitudes of the public to novel technologies have been widely considered there has been relatively little investigation of the perceptions and awareness of scientists working on human or animal diseases transmitted by arthropods. Methods Consequently, we conducted a global survey on 1889 scientists working on aspects of vector-borne diseases, exploring, under the light of a variety of demographic and professional factors, their knowledge and awareness of an emerging biotechnology that has the potential to revolutionize the control of pest insect populations. Results Despite extensive media coverage of key developments (including releases of manipulated mosquitoes into human communities) this has in only one instance resulted in scientist awareness exceeding 50 % on a national or regional scale. We document that awareness of pioneering releases significantly relied on private communication sources that were not equally accessible to scientists from countries with endemic vector-borne diseases (dengue and malaria). In addition, we provide quantitative analysis of the perceptions and knowledge of specific biotechnological approaches to controlling vector-borne disease, which are likely to impact the way in which scientists around the world engage in the debate about their value. Conclusions Our results indicate that there is scope to strengthen already effective methods of communication, in addition to a strong demand by scientists (expressed by 79.9 % of respondents) to develop new, creative modes of public engagement. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s13071-015-0996-x) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christophe Boëte
- UMR_D 190 Emergence des Pathologies Virales, Aix Marseille Université, IRD (Institut de Recherche pour le Développement), EHESP (Ecole des Hautes Etudes en Santé Publique), 27 Bd Jean Moulin, 13385, Marseille, Cedex 5, France.
| | - Uli Beisel
- Culture and Technology in Africa, Faculty V: Cultural Studies, Universität Bayreuth, Bayreuth, Germany.
| | - Luísa Reis Castro
- History, Anthropology, and Science, Technology, and Society (HASTS) MIT, 77 Massachusetts Avenue, Cambridge, MA, 02139, USA.
| | - Nicolas Césard
- CNRS-MNHN, UMR 7206 Eco-Anthropologie et Ethnobiologie, Dept Hommes, natures et sociétés, Musée de l'Homme 17 place Trocadéro 75016, Paris, France. .,Graduate School of Asian and African Area Studies, Kyoto University, Research Bldg. No. 2, Yoshida-Honmachi, Sakyo-ku, 606-8501, Kyoto, Japan.
| | - R Guy Reeves
- Department of Evolutionary Genetics, Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Biology August-Thienemannstrasse 2, 24306, Plön, Germany.
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Marques MD, Critchley CR, Walshe J. Attitudes to genetically modified food over time: How trust in organizations and the media cycle predict support. PUBLIC UNDERSTANDING OF SCIENCE (BRISTOL, ENGLAND) 2015; 24:601-618. [PMID: 25063421 DOI: 10.1177/0963662514542372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/03/2023]
Abstract
This research examined public opinion toward genetically modified plants and animals for food, and how trust in organizations and media coverage explained attitudes toward these organisms. Nationally representative samples (N=8821) over 10 years showed Australians were less positive toward genetically modified animals compared to genetically modified plants for food, especially in years where media coverage was high. Structural equation modeling found that positive attitudes toward different genetically modified organisms for food were significantly associated with higher trust in scientists and regulators (e.g. governments), and with lower trust in watchdogs (e.g. environmental movement). Public trust in scientists and watchdogs was a stronger predictor of attitudes toward the use of genetically modified plants for food than animals, but only when media coverage was low. Results are discussed regarding the moral acceptability of genetically modified organisms for food, the media's role in shaping public opinion, and the role public trust in organizations has on attitudes toward genetically modified organisms.
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Abstract
There are positive views towards use of science and technology in all Asian countries, and positive views towards use of enhancement in China, India and Thailand. After considering of the widespread use of cosmetic surgery and other body enhancements in Asian countries, and the generally positive views towards letting individuals make choices about improvement of themselves, the paper concludes that we can expect other enhancements to also be adopted rapidly in Asia. There will be future ethical dilemmas emerging from this with concepts of preservation of nature, flow with nature, and definitions of human-ness, along with concepts of harmony and social justice. Japan is less willing to engage in genetic enhancement compared to China, India and Thailand, despite widespread cosmetic surgery across Asia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Darryl Macer
- Regional Unit for Social and Human Sciences in Asia and the Pacific (RUSHSAP), UNESCO Bangkok, 920 Sukhumvit Road, Prakanong, Bangkok, 10110, Thailand.
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Abstract
The existing research base on public attitudes about genetics shows that people's attitudes vary according to the specific technologies and purposes to which genetic knowledge is applied. Genetic testing is viewed highly favorably, genetically modified food is viewed with ambivalence, and cloning is viewed negatively. Attitudes are favorable for uses that maintain a perceived natural order and unfavorable for uses that are perceived to change it. Public concerns about control of genetic information and eugenics are evident, but their strength and relevance to policy preference are unclear. The pattern of attitudes can be explained by theories of attitude formation, and the existing base of information can be deepened and given more explanatory and predictive power by integrating future research into the various traditions that theorize attitude formation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celeste M Condit
- Department of Speech Communication, University of Georgia, Athens, GA 30602, USA.
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Mauro IJ, McLachlan SM. Farmer knowledge and risk analysis: postrelease evaluation of herbicide-tolerant canola in Western Canada. RISK ANALYSIS : AN OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE SOCIETY FOR RISK ANALYSIS 2008; 28:463-76. [PMID: 18419662 DOI: 10.1111/j.1539-6924.2008.01027.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
The global controversy regarding the use of genetically modified (GM) crops has proved to be a challenge for "science-based" risk assessments. Although risk analysis incorporates societal perspectives in decision making over these crops, it is largely predicated on contrasts between "expert" and "lay" perspectives. The overall objective of this study is to explore the role for farmers' knowledge, and their decade-long experience with herbicide-tolerant (HT) canola, in the risk analysis of GM crops. From 2002 to 2003, data were collected using interviews (n= 15) and mail surveys (n= 370) with farmers from Manitoba and across Canada. The main benefits associated with HT canola were management oriented and included easier weed control, herbicide rotation, and better weed control, whereas the main risks were more diverse and included market harm, technology use agreements (TUAs), and increased seed costs. Benefits and risks were inversely related, and the salient factor influencing risk was farmer experiences with HT canola volunteers, followed by small farm size and duration using HT canola. These HT volunteers were reported by 38% of farmers, from both internal (e.g., seedbank, farm machinery, etc.) and external (e.g., wind, seed contamination, etc.) sources, and were found to persist over time. Farmer knowledge is a reliable and rich source of information regarding the efficacy of HT crops, demonstrating that individual experiences are important to risk perception. The socioeconomic nature of most risks combined with the continuing "farm income crisis" in North America demonstrates the need for a more holistic and inclusive approach to risk assessment associated with HT crops and, indeed, with all new agricultural technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ian J Mauro
- Environmental Conservation Lab, Department of Environment and Geography, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
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Mohr P, Harrison A, Wilson C, Baghurst KI, Syrette J. Attitudes, values, and socio-demographic characteristics that predict acceptance of genetic engineering and applications of new technology in Australia. Biotechnol J 2007; 2:1169-78. [PMID: 17703489 DOI: 10.1002/biot.200700105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Studies of community reactions to biotechnology and genetic engineering (GE), in particular, have identified a number of correlates of acceptance, including the field of application of a technology and various characteristics of the perceiver. Factor analysis of acceptability ratings (N=686) of 12 applications of new technologies revealed three factors, denoting medical, societal, and indulgent applications. Acceptability ratings of each application and of GE in principle were regressed onto 18 demographic, attitudinal, trust, and value variables previously identified as potential correlates of acceptance. Predictive profiles for acceptance of medical and societal applications were largely similar. General receptiveness toward science and technology was the primary predictor of GE acceptance and a major predictor of acceptance for each application area. Environmental concern and self-transcendent (e.g., pro-nature) values did not predict acceptance in any instance. Findings clarify considerations associated with acceptance of biotechnological innovations and support arguments against knowledge- and trust-deficit explanations of resistance to technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Philip Mohr
- Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation Food Futures National Research Flagship, Adelaide, SA, Australia.
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Novoselova TA, Meuwissen MP, Huirne RB. Adoption of GM technology in livestock production chains: an integrating framework. Trends Food Sci Technol 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/j.tifs.2006.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Costa-Font J, Mossialos E. The Public as a Limit to Technology Transfer: The Influence of Knowledge and Beliefs in Attitudes towards Biotechnology in the UK. JOURNAL OF TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER 2006. [DOI: 10.1007/s10961-006-0019-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
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Huang J, Qiu H, Bai J, Pray C. Awareness, acceptance of and willingness to buy genetically modified foods in Urban China. Appetite 2006; 46:144-51. [PMID: 16469414 DOI: 10.1016/j.appet.2005.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2005] [Revised: 10/18/2005] [Accepted: 11/15/2005] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
There is concern about the extent to which consumers will accept genetically modified (GM) foods if they are commercialized in China. The evidence from the existing literature is mixed and sometimes confusing. The objective of this study is to conduct a large in-depth face-to-face in-house survey that examines the consumers' awareness, acceptance of and willingness to buy GM foods in China. To achieve this objective, a well-designed consumer survey was conducted in 11 cities of five provinces in Eastern China in 2002 and 2003. The results indicate that despite much less information on GM foods available publicly in China, more than two thirds of consumers in urban areas have heard of GM foods. But their knowledge on biotechnology was limited. Chinese consumers' acceptance of and willingness to buy GM foods was much higher than in other countries. Chinese consumers also demonstrated great variance in their acceptance of different GM foods. Information and prices of GM foods were two important factors affecting consumers' attitudes toward GM foods. Based on the findings of this study and given that our sample is in the more developed eastern Urban China, we conclude that the commercialization of GM foods is not likely to receive great resistance from the consumers in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jikun Huang
- Institute of Geographical Sciences and Natural Resource Research (IGSNRR), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Center for Chinese Agricultural Policy, Jia 11, Datun Road, Beijing 100101, China.
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Macer D. Ethical, legal and social issues of genetically modifying insect vectors for public health. INSECT BIOCHEMISTRY AND MOLECULAR BIOLOGY 2005; 35:649-60. [PMID: 15894183 DOI: 10.1016/j.ibmb.2005.02.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 02/11/2005] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
The use of genetically modified (GM) insects for control of human disease can be consistent with common ethical norms of international society to reduce human suffering. This paper considers a range of ethical issues including animal rights, informed consent, community consensus and environmental viewpoints. Each community needs to decide its own priorities for methodology of disease policy guidance for ethical genetic engineering, and to negotiate with neighbouring countries. The approach to genetically modify insects raises few intrinsic ethical issues; however, important environmental and human health concerns need to be assessed before release of any GM insects. The policy that each community adopts should be the product of open dialogue involving all sectors of society. It can be expected that this process will take years and not all communities will endorse genetic control approaches to insect vectors.
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Bates BR, Lynch JA, Bevan JL, Condit CM. Warranted concerns, warranted outlooks: a focus group study of public understandings of genetic research. Soc Sci Med 2005; 60:331-44. [PMID: 15522489 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2004.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
This paper discusses how the American public accounts for the concerns that they have about genetic research and the benefits that they foresee. We develop a general framework for discussing public claims about genetic technology based on Stephen Toulmin's model of warrants in argumentation. After a review of the results from public opinion polls about genetic research, we present a focus group study of public understandings of genetics. We outline the warrants, or publicly accepted "good reasons", that this group offers for accepting some aspects of genetic technology and for rejecting other aspects. The warrants presented by the public in their discussion of genetic research indicate that the public has a complex, informed understanding of genetic research, albeit a non-technical one. The paper concludes with a discussion of the importance of public participation in debates over genetic research and the ways that researchers and policymakers could adapt to public concerns about genetics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin R Bates
- School of Communication Studies, Lasher Hall, Ohio University, Athens, OH 45701, USA.
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Maekawa F, Macer D. How Japanese students reason about agricultural biotechnology. SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING ETHICS 2004; 10:705-716. [PMID: 15586729 DOI: 10.1007/s11948-004-0048-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Many have claimed that education of the ethical issues raised by biotechnology is essential in universities, but there is little knowledge of its effectiveness. The focus of this paper is to investigate how university students assess the information given in class to make their own value judgments and decisions relating to issues of agricultural biotechnology, especially over genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Analysis of homework reports related with agricultural biotechnology after identification of key concepts and ideas in each student report is presented. The ideas were sorted into different categories. The ideas were compared with those in the reading materials using the same categories. These categories included: concern about affects on humans, affects on the environment, developing countries and starvation, trust in industry, responsibility of scientists, risk perception, media influence, need for (international) organizations or third parties, and information dissemination. What was consistent through the different years was that more than half of the students took a "neutral" position. A report was scored as "neutral" when the report included both the positive and negative side of an issue, or when the student could not make a definite decision about the use of GMOs and GM food. While it may be more difficult to defend a strong ''for" or "against" position, some students used logical arguments successfully in doing so. Sample comments are presented to depict how Japanese students see agricultural technology, and how they value its application, with comparisons to the general social attitudes towards biotechnology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fumi Maekawa
- Institute of Biological Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Japan
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Triunfol ML, Hines PJ. Dynamics of list-server discussion on genetically modified foods. PUBLIC UNDERSTANDING OF SCIENCE (BRISTOL, ENGLAND) 2004; 13:155-175. [PMID: 15323060 DOI: 10.1177/0963662504044110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Computer-mediated discussion lists, or list-servers, are popular tools in settings ranging from professional to personal to educational. A discussion list on genetically modified food (GMF) was created in September 2000 as part of the Forum on Genetically Modified Food developed by Science Controversies: Online Partnerships in Education (SCOPE), an educational project that uses computer resources to aid research and learning around unresolved scientific questions. The discussion list "GMF-Science" was actively supported from January 2001 to May 2002. The GMF-Science list welcomed anyone interested in discussing the controversies surrounding GMF. Here, we analyze the dynamics of the discussions and how the GMF-Science list may contribute to learning. Activity on the GMF-Science discussion list reflected some but not all the controversies that were appearing in more traditional publication formats, broached other topics not well represented in the published literature, and tended to leave undiscussed the more technical research developments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcia L Triunfol
- Associate editor at the American Assocation for the Advancement of Science (AAAS).
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Abstract
Every biotechnology success story increases the number of decisions that the lay public must make about genetics. But vibrant public discussion about these far-reaching changes has been rare, and research on the public's understanding of genetics has barely scratched the surface. This article reviews what we know about the public's attitudes towards genetics, proposes some concepts for thinking about public involvement and indicates some future lines of research.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Condit
- Department of Speech Communication, University of Georgia, 110 Terrell Hall, Athens, Georgia 30602, USA.
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