Abstract
Public opposition to genetically modified organisms (GMOs) remains strong. By contrast, studies demonstrate again and again that GM crops make a valuable contribution to the development of a sustainable type of agriculture. The discrepancy between public opinion and the scientific evidence requires an explanation. We argue that intuitive expectations about the world render the human mind vulnerable to particular misrepresentations of GMOs. We explain how the involvement of particular intuitions accounts for the popularity, persistence, and typical features of GM opposition and tackle possible objections to our approach. To conclude, we discuss the implications for science education, science communication, and the environmental movement.
Original language | English |
---|---|
Pages (from-to) | 414-418 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Trends in Plant Science |
Volume | 20 |
Issue number | 7 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - Jul 2015 |
Externally published | Yes |
Keywords
- genetically modified organisms
- public opposition
- intuitive mind
- cultural attraction
- DISGUST
- BIOTECHNOLOGY
- BELIEFS
- HEALTH
- IMPACT
- CROPS