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RaJade Berry James – Cultural Perceptions of GM Foods | GES Colloquium (Zoom)
September 8, 2020 @ 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
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Does Responsible Innovation Really Matter? Examining Cultural Perceptions of Biotechnology In Food Systems
Speaker: RaJade Berry James, PhD, Associate Professor of Public Administration at NC State
Website | Email | Twitter @jadeberryjames
Regarding Genetically Modified Foods, do historical reality and social skepticism still matter? It depends.
Note: Colloquium will be held via Zoom until the university resumes normal operations. Click Register/Join button at the bottom of this page for Zoom link. See Virtual Colloquium: Zoom Instructions for Zoom information.
Abstract
Understanding the GMO food debate is complex. In the public sphere, the use of biotechnology to produce food is fueled by consumer skepticism. The views on food safety are polarizing – citizens and scientists differ. Whether science is used to close the gap between social groups has yet to be determined. Research findings and policy making pathways are almost non-existent for underrepresented groups. Among Blacks, government distrust and mistrust have historical meaning and real implications. Some Blacks remain skeptical of government and are skeptical of genetic engineering, too. Key to responsible innovation is the potential to unlock meaningful pathways into underrepresented communities.
Related resources:
Berry-James, R. M. (2019, March). Responsible Innovation: Cultural perceptions of biotechnology in food systems. Poster session presented at the 1st NC State University Research Symposium, Raleigh, NC.
Speaker Bio
Dr. RaJade M. Berry-James is an associate professor of public administration in the School of Public and International Affairs (SPIA) at NC State University. Dr. Berry-James’ research and teaching focus on social equity, program evaluation, and research methods. Her recent book, Why Research Methods Matter (2018) focuses on evidence-based decision making in the public and nonprofit sectors. Dr. Berry-James is a Fellow of the National Academy of Public Administration, a congressionally chartered non-partisan non-profit.