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Science and the sources of hype
1Law Centre, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB, Canada. tcaulfld@law.ualberta.ca
Public Health Genomics
|April 11, 2012
Summary
Genomic research hype, fueled by publication pressure and commercialization, creates social concerns. Addressing this requires comprehensive policy strategies to counter the
Area of Science:
- Genomics
- Sociology of Science
- Science Communication
Background:
- Genomic research is often subject to significant hype in both public and scientific spheres.
- This "hype" surrounding genomic discoveries can lead to various societal concerns and ethical considerations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and map the social forces that contribute to the overhyping of genomic research.
- To understand the interconnected factors driving the "hype pipeline" in genomics.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative analysis of social forces contributing to hype.
- Mapping the 'hype pipeline' in genomic research.
Main Results:
- Identified key contributors to genomic hype: publication pressure, commercialization, institutional messaging, media coverage, and public perception.
- These factors form an interconnected "hype pipeline" that perpetuates the phenomenon.
Conclusions:
- The overemphasis and hype in genomic research stem from a complex interplay of scientific, commercial, media, and public factors.
- Countering this hype necessitates multifaceted policy interventions to ensure responsible science communication and manage societal expectations.
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