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• Date of publication Sep 29, 2021 Category: Article

  Understanding knowledge and perceptions of genome editing technologies: a textual analysis of major agricultural stakeholder groups

  by Matthew Robbins , Christopher Calabrese , Jieyu Ding Featherstone , George A. Barnett

  The promise of CRISPR-Cas9 (CRISPR) genomic editing applied to agriculture is promoted widely by scientists. We utilized textual analysis methods to compare perceptions of this innovation held by various stakeholder groups — scientists, policymakers, farmers, and the general public. Results reveal distinctions in the semantic structure and concepts emphasized across groups. Scientists and policymakers exhibited a high level of technical sophistication while emphasizing the potential societal benefits, while farmers and the general public focused on perceived personal benefits and familiarity with the issue. These results will aid development of message strategies bridging the gap between the scientific community and key publics.

  Volume 20 • Issue 05 • 2021

• Date of publication Feb 15, 2021 Category: Article

  Examining the relationship between gene editing knowledge, value predispositions, and general science attitudes among U.S. farmers, scientists, policymakers, and the general public

  by Christopher Calabrese , Jieyu Ding Featherstone , Matthew Robbins , George A. Barnett

  Science communication scholars have debated over what factors are related to public support for science and technology. This study examines the relationship between factual knowledge of gene editing technologies, value predispositions, and general science attitudes among four major U.S. agricultural stakeholder groups: farmers, scientists, policymakers, and the general public. Understanding these factors will aid in guiding message strategies for engagement with stakeholder groups. Findings indicate that gene editing knowledge was positively associated with science attitudes for all four groups, while conservative ideology was negatively associated with science attitudes among three of the groups. Implications and limitations are discussed.

  Volume 20 • Issue 02 • 2021