Knowledge about and Attitudes to GMOs among Students from Various Specializations

2011 ◽  
Vol 40 (4) ◽  
pp. 337-342 ◽  
Author(s):  
Agnieszka Wnuk ◽  
Marcin Kozak

Genetically modified organisms (GMOs) are a hot topic for debate among researchers from a wide range of scientific disciplines – in particular, agriculture, biotechnology and environmental protection. The debate, however, is not limited to science. GMOs are also discussed in the mass media, giving rise to extreme emotions, both positive and negative. Without entering the argument between the supporters and opponents of GMOs, this paper addresses the following questions. How do future experts in agriculture, biotechnology and environmental protection approach the topic of GMOs? Do they have similar or dramatically different views on this subject? What do they know about GMOs? Is their knowledge related to their attitudes? University students specializing in those three disciplines can be considered as future experts in the field, and so a questionnaire survey was conducted among them to answer the above questions. The results show that agricultural, biotechnology and environmental protection students differ in their attitudes to and knowledge about GMOs.

Author(s):  
R. Lance Holbert

This chapter offers a systematic assessment of DICTION’s ability to address a wide range of media content. Each of the media-related works in this volume reflects a unique mix of communication inputs, and DICTION proves itself able to generate valid and reliable insights on a diverse range of material. In addition, the chapter focuses on a series of challenges (e.g., Message Tailoring, Hypertext, Interactivity) and opportunities (e.g., big data) for DICTION in relation to the study of media content. The program and the researchers who utilize it need to continue to evolve with the changing media landscape in order to generate practical knowledge that is relevant to improving communication.


2017 ◽  
Vol 3 (1) ◽  
pp. 57
Author(s):  
Anjali Ghodasara ◽  
Marisa Deliso ◽  
Satesh Bidaisee

This study assessed knowledge, attitudes and perceptions of various stakeholders in Grenada regarding genetically modified organisms and the release of genetically modified mosquitoes. The study adopted a cross sectional design with a study population that comprised of members from seven stakeholder groups of civil society in Grenada. The sample population was obtained through a snowballing strategy and data collection for the study consisted of a semi-structured interview. Data was managed through the collection and reviewing of data from transcribed interview notes, as well as observations and interpretations made during the field collection. Interview recordings were analyzed to identify emerging themes. These themes were ranked according to the frequency with which they appeared, and main concepts identified by linking related themes. Most groups supported the use of genetically modified mosquitoes against Zika, but there were several varying concerns, including environmental worries and the impact of these organisms on humans. Many questioned the characteristics of Zika itself, and some believed Zika is a man-made virus created in a lab. Others doubted the link of Zika virus to microcephaly and other birth defects, and some were unsure if Zika virus is transmitted by mosquitoes. There is a wide range of differing knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions towards genetically modifying technology in general and towards mosquitoes in response to Zika.


2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jack A Heinemann

The New Zealand Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) issued a Decision that makes the use of externally applied double-stranded (ds)RNA molecules on eukaryotic cells or organisms technically out of scope of legislation on new organisms, because in its view the treatment does not create new or genetically modified organisms. dsRNA molecules can be potent gene regulators in eukaryotes, causing what is known as RNA interference. RNA-based technology holds promise for addressing complex and persistent challenges in public health, agriculture and conservation but also raises the threat of unintended consequences. The Decision rests on their conclusion that dsRNA treatments do not modify genes or other genetic material and are therefore not heritable. The EPA conclusion is not consistent with the totality of peer-reviewed research on dsRNA or industry claims. The Decision applies to nearly all eukaryotes, however, the EPA relied upon knowledge of relatively few eukaryotes and its analysis neglected known exceptions. The Decision also has not taken into account the unique eukaryotic biodiversity of the country, much of which is still to be described. The regulator has potentially created precedent-setting definitions of previously undefined or alternatively defined key terms that trigger obligations under binding international agreements, in addition to domestic legislation. Finally, by placing no restriction on the source or means of modifying the dsRNA, the EPA removed regulatory oversight that could prevent the accidental release of viral genes or genomes. This article examines the scientific evidence, conclusions and recommendations of the EPA and also presents some additional options.


2017 ◽  
Vol 41 (2) ◽  
pp. 110
Author(s):  
Gabriele Borges Rodrigues ◽  
Leonardo Da Rocha de Souza

Resumo: O objetivo deste artigo é analisar o princípio da precaução como critério utilizado pela Administração Pública para a liberação de organismos geneticamente modificados (OGMs). Para isso, realiza-se um estudo a respeito da importância do princípio da precaução para a realização da proteção ambiental, trazendo-se um enfoque da sua regulação em instrumentos internacionais. A seguir, trabalha-se com os problemas provenientes da incerteza científica e como eles afetam o dever que o Estado tem de evitar danos, incertezas essas que geram dificuldades para a aplicação do princípio da precaução. Esse contexto leva este texto a algumas propostas de soluções para Administração Pública aplicar o princípio da precaução apesar (e em virtude) das incertezas científicas. Permeia o texto, e enfatiza-se ao final, uma aplicação do princípio da precaução na liberação de organismos geneticamente modificados. A abordagem é realizada utilizando-se o método hipotético-dedutivo, levantando-se hipóteses e possibilidades para aplicação prática do princípio da precaução na atuação da Administração Pública. Utiliza-se a técnica de pesquisa de documentação indireta, com a revisão bibliográfica de obras nacionais e estrangeiras, incluindo periódicos e textos normativos. Como resultado, pretende-se que este artigo subsidie o aperfeiçoamento de políticas públicas de proteção ambiental, de forma a evitar que as incertezas científicas gerem danos ambientais e propondo-se maior cautela na inserção dos OGMs no meio ambiente.Abstract: The purpose of this article is to analyze the precautionary principle as a criterion used by public authorities for the release of genetically modified organisms (GMOs). For this, we carried out a study about the importance of the precautionary principle for the realization of environmental protection, bringing a focus of its regulation on international rules. Next, we work with problems arising from scientific uncertainty and how they affect the duty that the state has to prevent damage, such uncertainties that generate difficulties for the application of the precautionary principle. This context leads this text to some proposed solutions for Public Administration apply the precautionary principle despite (and because) of scientific uncertainty. During the text, with an emphasis on end, we carry out an application of the precautionary principle in the release of genetically modified organisms. The approach is performed using the hypothetical-deductive method, rising hypotheses and possibilities for practical application of the precautionary principle in the operation of Public Administration. We use the indirect documentation search technique, the literature review of national and foreign works, including periodicals and normative texts. As a result, we intend this article to subsidize the improvement of public policies for environmental protection, in order to prevent the scientific uncertainties, generate environmental damage and proposing greater caution in the insertion of GMOs into the environment.


2020 ◽  
Vol 15 (5) ◽  
pp. 46
Author(s):  
Emeterio Franco-Perez ◽  
Osval Antonio Montesinos-Lopez ◽  
J Jesus Garcia Martinez ◽  
Alberto Pastrana Palma ◽  
Josafhat Salinas-Ruiz ◽  
...  

Introduction: To know the perceptions and attitudes about the labeling of products made with genetically modified organisms (GMO), of students from five universities in central Mexico, in the following areas of knowledge: natural sciences, health sciences, chemical sciences, economic and administrative sciences and biological and agricultural sciences. Methodological design and approach: In the study, 2923 students answered a questionnaire with Likert scale of five questions. It is important to mention that the original questionnaire has 64 variables and 11 factors to measure the perceptions, attitudes, benefits and risks on the production and consumption of GMO. Results: Of the total sample 16.60% always read the labels, 85.70% agree that the label should show the characteristics of the product. 82.90% said that when making promotions should be reported on the label the characteristics of the product and finally 82.90% answered that the Mexican government should legislate a legal framework to regulate the mandatory labeling of products made with GMOs. Discussion or Conclusion. The sample only cover 5 Mexican universities. The relevant contribution of this research provides an empirical knowledge about the perceptions and attitudes regarding the labeling of products with GMOs content from a sample of the population of five public universities in central Mexico. This study is an important contribution for Mexican society, because there is no legal framework to regulate the labeling of products with GMO content and that it is essential to strengthen the training of university students with scientific information in this field. The labeling of products made with GMOs is generating relevant controversies worldwide, so it is important to know and spread the perceptions and attitudes of the sample considered in this study.


2018 ◽  
Author(s):  
Jack A Heinemann

The New Zealand Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) issued a Decision that makes the use of externally applied double-stranded (ds)RNA molecules on eukaryotic cells or organisms technically out of scope of legislation on new organisms, because in its view the treatment does not create new or genetically modified organisms. dsRNA molecules can be potent gene regulators in eukaryotes, causing what is known as RNA interference. RNA-based technology holds promise for addressing complex and persistent challenges in public health, agriculture and conservation but also raises the threat of unintended consequences. The Decision rests on their conclusion that dsRNA treatments do not modify genes or other genetic material and are therefore not heritable. The EPA conclusion is not consistent with the totality of peer-reviewed research on dsRNA or industry claims. The Decision applies to nearly all eukaryotes, however, the EPA relied upon knowledge of relatively few eukaryotes and its analysis neglected known exceptions. The Decision also has not taken into account the unique eukaryotic biodiversity of the country, much of which is still to be described. The regulator has potentially created precedent-setting definitions of previously undefined or alternatively defined key terms that trigger obligations under binding international agreements, in addition to domestic legislation. Finally, by placing no restriction on the source or means of modifying the dsRNA, the EPA removed regulatory oversight that could prevent the accidental release of viral genes or genomes. This article examines the scientific evidence, conclusions and recommendations of the EPA and also presents some additional options.


Author(s):  
Tamir Bar-On

This chapter discusses the life and work of Richard B. Spencer, the president of the National Policy Institute, a US white-nationalist think tank. A few weeks after the 2016 presidential election, at a National Policy Institute conference, Spencer famously called “Hail Trump, hail our people, hail victory!” and some of his supporters gave the Nazi salute. Spencer is self-described as an identitarian, and is the inventor of the term “Alt Right,” which he coined to differentiate his views from mainstream American conservatism. Spencer is the leading communicator of the Alt Right message rather than its leading intellectual. He has found his niche as Alt Right provocateur and media spokesman. The mass media line up to interview him, and university students are listening to his message.


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