Lisa Sander Knihy

Focusing on media dynamics, this study investigates how certain voices and frames dominate the public discourse on genetically engineered (GE) foods. It identifies key players in the debate and analyzes the impact of stakeholder competition and political contexts on media representation. By exploring the interplay between activism, scientific advancements, and policy, the research presents an interactive model that illustrates varying levels of stakeholder participation in the GE debate in the U.S. and Great Britain. It serves as a resource for journalists and science communicators engaged in this complex issue.

From Frankenfoods to Golden Rice, several recent studies in the field of science communication explore media coverage of genetically engineered (GE) foods with a central focus on public awareness and understanding. Rather than focusing on accuracy and information flow, this study concentrates on why and when the media highlight certain voices and frames in the public debate on GE foods. Who are the key players in the media debate? How do opposition and competition among stakeholders and a dynamic political environment affect opportunities to participate in the public debate? To answer these questions, this reasearch examines the relationship between activism, scientific discoveries, and policy activities and develops an interactive model to explain diffrerences in participation among stakeholders in the GE debate in both the United States and Great Britain. This book is addressed to professionals in journalism and science communication as well as those interested in navigating the genetic engineering debate.