Public understandings of biotechnology in New Zealand : nature, clean green image and spirituality

Abstract

This programme was granted funding in response to a demand for additional information on public perceptions of the risks of biotechnology. The Foundaton for Research, Science and Technology identified the need for research into the key socio-economic impacts of biotechnology. More specifically, the Foundation recognized how important it was to identify the relevant factors in determining the public perceptions of technological risk. These factors are associated with the full range of biotechnologies including medical, environmental and food applications. The public perception of technological risk is of critical importance in the future development of biotechnology in New Zealand. Consequently, there is a need for tools to assist in the analysis of perceived technological risk.