The Influence of Agricultural Background and Geographic Location on Students1 Attitudes about Biotechnology

摘要

College students m Washington and Nebraska were surveyed to investigate if having an agricultural background and/or differing geographic location influenced their perceptions about the use of biotechnology in agriculture. Having an agricultural background influences student's perception about the use of biotechnology in agriculture. Although both groups have similar perceptions about the potential for antibiotic resistance, they seem to disagree about whether or not labeling is necessary to protect consumer health. In addition, both groups are in agreement about the potential for developing new strains of bugs and weeds, but differ in their perception about the potential threat biotechnology poses to non-target species. Students in Nebraska and Washington also differed in their perceptions about biotechnology. The two groups differed in their perceptions about health risks and identifying food allergens. Conclusions to the paper suggest benefits to teaching in many courses of understanding the student's perceptions of biotechnology and its effects.