Scientists’ Motivations to Talk about Uncertainties in Biotechnological Research

Sunday, February 14, 2016: 10:00 AM-11:30 AM
Marshall Ballroom East (Marriott Wardman Park)
Michaela Maier,University of Koblenz-Landau, Landau, Germany
Uncertainty is fundamental to any scientific process. This is especially true for biotechnological research. However, research has shown that scientists are rather reluctant to inform the public about uncertainties regarding their research. Based on a representative survey with German scientists active in the field, we investigate scientists’ motivations and expectations as well as communication goals when pointing out scientific uncertainty in their public communication.