forbes.com
Global Survey Reveals Optimism for Cell and Gene Therapies, but Concerns Remain About Other Breakthrough Technologies
A global survey of over 13,000 people across 13 countries reveals high optimism for cell and gene therapy (74%), but lower acceptance of cultivated meat (39%) and concerns about AI in medicine, highlighting the need for greater public engagement and transparency regarding emerging technologies.
- What are the long-term implications of declining trust in public health authorities for the adoption of life science breakthroughs, and how can this trust be rebuilt?
- The survey indicates a need for enhanced public engagement and transparency regarding emerging technologies. Addressing concerns about AI's role in healthcare (77% concerned about AI replacing human medical decisions), the 'unnaturalness' of cultivated meat, and the legacy of GMO opposition will be crucial for wider adoption. Future legislation differentiating NGTs from GMOs in the EU may influence global perceptions.
- How do socio-economic factors and cultural contexts influence public acceptance of NGTs in agriculture and cultivated meat, and what strategies can mitigate resistance?
- Public perception of new genomic techniques (NGTs) in agriculture is positive, particularly in lower-middle-income countries (72%), where food security concerns are acute. In contrast, cultivated meat receives the least support (39%), with negative views strongest in the U.S. and Europe. This disparity highlights the influence of socio-economic factors and cultural perceptions on technology acceptance.
- What is the most significant finding regarding public perception of breakthrough technologies in the life sciences, and what are its immediate implications for stakeholders?
- A global survey by Leaps by Bayer and Boston Consulting Group, involving over 13,000 participants across 13 countries, reveals significant public optimism (74%) towards cell and gene therapies for disease cures. However, trust in public health authorities is declining in the West, with only 48% of French and 56% of Americans expressing trust.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing is generally balanced, presenting both positive and negative public perceptions of each technology. However, the headline and introduction emphasize the importance of public acceptance, potentially overshadowing the scientific aspects of the breakthroughs. The structure prioritizes public opinion data over in-depth scientific explanations.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and objective. While terms like "optimism" and "concerns" carry connotations, they are used descriptively and appropriately within the context of reporting public opinion. There is no evidence of loaded language or charged terminology.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses primarily on public perception of the technologies, neglecting a detailed exploration of the scientific advancements themselves. While this is the article's stated focus, a more balanced approach would briefly summarize the scientific breakthroughs alongside public opinion. The lack of specific details about the scientific mechanisms could unintentionally limit the reader's ability to form fully informed conclusions about the technologies' potential benefits and risks.
Sustainable Development Goals
The survey highlights the potential of new genomic techniques (NGTs) in agriculture to address food security challenges, particularly in lower-middle-income countries where 72% of respondents viewed NGTs positively. This aligns with SDG 2 (Zero Hunger) which aims to end hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture. The rationale is that increased crop resilience through NGTs can lead to higher yields and more stable food supplies, directly contributing to food security.