ABSTRACT
The highly polarized controversy over genetic engineering (GE) of crops has been complicated by two intertwined challenges. The first of these has been the need to establish a dialogue about complex bio logical concepts between parties whose scientific vocabulary and sophistication covers the full spectrum from the deep to the nonexis tent. At the same time, the GE debate involves bridging the “two cul tures” identified many years ago by C. P. Snow, since the issues at the core of the controversy are not purely scientific questions but also tap into ethical and sociopolitical concerns. It is probably fair to say that the conjunction of these mutually reinforcing challenges has contrib uted to the suspicion and frustration that typify the present scene, traits that are the hallmark of ineffective communication. However, resolution of this situation will require more than a communication effort focused on “better informing the public about the science,” a model often promoted by the scientific community. Rather, the goal must be to develop a pattern-of two-way communication that ac knowledges and respects the interests and concerns of all those in volved. It is hoped that this book makes a useful contribution to that global dialogue.
