Gene editing and genetically modified organisms (GMOs) have been subjects of intense debate in recent years. However, a new study conducted by the Alliance for Science, an initiative based at the Boyce Thompson Institute, brings positive news by revealing a favorable shift in public sentiment towards gene editing compared to GMOs. Analyzing data from January 2018 to December 2022, the study shows that gene editing consistently receives higher favorability ratings in both social and traditional English-language media.
The study, published in the journal GM Crops & Food, provides valuable insights for the scientific community and science communication professionals. Lead author Mark Lynas highlights the positive sentiment towards gene editing in social media, with close to 100% favorability achieved in several monthly values throughout the analysis period. This optimistic trend suggests that gene editing has the potential to make a substantial contribution to future food security and environmental sustainability worldwide.
The study also reveals a consistent difference in favorability between gene editing and GMOs. Lynas suggests that this disparity could be attributed to the relatively new nature of gene editing as compared to the long-standing negative publicity surrounding GMOs. The research team also speculates that gene editing, which involves DNA alterations that can occur naturally, may be perceived as less “scary” than transgenic techniques that transfer DNA sequences between unrelated species.
An interesting finding of the study is the surprisingly positive social media coverage of gene editing in recent years, contradicting the commonly held belief that social media tends to be negative and polarizing. This positive coverage on social media suggests a growing acceptance and understanding of this technology among the public.
While the study presents a positive trend in public acceptance of gene editing, the authors caution that recent indications of sustained downward trends in favorability may be a cause for concern. They emphasize the need for continued analysis of changing sentiment over time and ongoing communication and engagement with the public to ensure a thorough understanding of gene editing and its potential benefits.
Dr. Sheila Ochugboju, Executive Director of the Alliance for Science, finds the positive coverage of agricultural gene editing in both traditional and social media encouraging. These findings offer hope that the battle for public opinion is not lost and that gene editing technologies stand a chance of being accepted.
More information:
Mark Lynas et al, Gene editing achieves consistently higher favorability in social and traditional media than GMOs, GM Crops & Food (2023). DOI: 10.1080/21645698.2023.2226889
Citation:
Gene editing: New study reveals shifting public sentiment (2023, June 28)
retrieved 28 June 2023
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