Dynamics of problem setting and framing in citizen discussions on synthetic biology. (April 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Betten, Afke Wieke; Broerse, Jacqueline E.W.; Kupper, Frank
• Is Part Of: Public understanding of science. Volume 27:Number 3(2018)
• Page Start: 294
• Page End: 309
• Publication Date: 2018-04
• Subjects: complex problems -- focus group methodology -- framing -- problem setting -- public engagement -- responsible research and innovation -- synthetic biology; Science news -- Periodicals; Science -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; 303.483
• DOI: 10.1177/0963662517712207
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0963-6625

Abstract

Synthetic biology is an emerging scientific field where engineers and biologists design and build biological systems for various applications. Developing synthetic biology responsibly in the public interest necessitates a meaningful societal dialogue. In this article, we argue that facilitating such a dialogue requires an understanding of how people make sense of synthetic biology. We performed qualitative research to unravel the underlying dynamics of problem setting and framing in citizen discussions on synthetic biology. We found that most people are not inherently for or against synthetic biology as a technology or development in itself, but that their perspectives are framed by core values about our relationships with science and technology and that sensemaking is much dependent on the context and general feelings of (dis)content. Given that there are many assumptions focused on a more binary idea of the public's view, we emphasize the need for frame awareness and understanding in a meaningful dialogue.