Understanding Public Responses to Emerging Technologies: A Narrative Approach

摘要: Previous studies aimed at understanding public responses to emerging technologies have given limited attention the social and cultural processes through which concerns emerge. When probed, these tended be explained either in cognitive psychological terms, typically form of shortcuts or heuristics influence affective variables, interactionist as a product micro dynamics interaction. We argue for an alternative approach that examines how attitudes are formed relation interplay wider narratives about science technology. Using data from recent qualitative research with publics on nanotechnology other technologies, we develop typology five underpin structure talk. The identify within focus group talk familiar stories deeply embedded contemporary culture, provide resources navigating issues posed by Substantively, they inform ‘tragic’ mood prospects technology, reflecting loss belief science, when coupled neo-liberal logics, guaranteeing progress. implications policy-making discussed.