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Published on: April 27, 2018
Chinese newspaper coverage of genetically modified organisms
1Health Law and Science Policy Group, Faculty of Law, University of Alberta, T6G 2H5, Edmonton, AB, Canada. ldu3@ualberta.ca
BMC Public Health
|May 4, 2012
Summary
Chinese newspapers largely support genetically modified organisms (GMOs), focusing more on benefits than risks. Media coverage indicates government backing for GMO research and GM cotton adoption, with minimal discussion of potential downsides.
Area of Science:
- Agricultural Science
- Biotechnology
- Science Communication
Background:
- Global debates surrounding the development and utilization of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) persist.
- News media significantly influences public perception and policy development concerning health and science topics.
- Understanding media coverage of GMOs in China is crucial for assessing public discourse and policy implications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the content of Chinese newspaper articles concerning genetically modified technologies and GMOs.
- To identify perspectives, risks, benefits, and tones in media reporting on GMOs in China.
Main Methods:
- A systematic search of the Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure Core Newspaper Database (CNKI-CND) was conducted.
- 77 articles (news reports, comments, notes) from People's Daily and Guangming Daily (Jan 2002-Aug 2011) were collected.
- Articles were analyzed for discussed perspectives, risks, benefits, and overall tone regarding GMOs.
Main Results:
- 29 different types of GMOs were reported on, with benefits discussed more frequently than risks.
- 48.1% of articles were supportive of GMO research and GM cotton adoption; 51.9% were neutral.
- While risks were mentioned, no articles expressed a negative tone towards GMOs.
Conclusions:
- Chinese print media demonstrates substantial support for GMOs.
- Media portrays the Chinese government as actively promoting national GMO R&D and GM cotton use.
- Minimal discussion of GMO risks necessitates improved, balanced science communication among media, scientists, and government.
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