Mass Media Communications about Agrobiotechnology

Abstract

The media is often accused of sensationalism and bias in its reporting of agrobiotechnology. In this paper, we examine United States (US) and United Kingdom (UK) media coverage of agrobiotechnology. Our findings confirm bias in so far as coverage has emphasized different frames (biosafety and food safety) at various points in time depending on unfolding events. We also find that the media may well have played an agenda-setting role for the public--ultimately raising awareness about agrobiotechnology on both sides of the Atlantic.