Nanotechnologies, Public Knowledge and the Media

Abstract

Where do publics derive their information about nanotechnologies? How may the ways in which information is presented in the media and other forums potentially shape public knowledge of and responses to this field? The question of how technologies are represented and how this may affect public responses and ultimately public trust has become a key issue in the contemporary governance of new technologies. Publics’ reactions to technologies — whether they will support or reject them — is seen to be shaped not only by the substantive content of information but also by how that information is ‘packaged’ and transmitted. The recent history of technology controversies has alerted scientists and policymakers to the power of ‘public opinion’ to influence the policies and regulations governing technologies. Adverse media publicity, it is recognised, can quickly derail what are seen to be promising new developments and undermine trust in authorities.