Social construction of genetically modified products in Iran: A qualitative study

Abstract

Genetically modified products have been the site of controversy over the last two decades. The main objective of this study is to examine these claims and identify the claim makers that raise these claims. This is a qualitative case study and data has been collected from three sources: interview with key actors in the field, the contents of three debates among the claim-makers and specialized and non-specialized texts related to the field. Research findings show two networks have been formed around genetically modified products. Each network consists of different groups and actors with a common view about genetically modified products. Network of proponents frame genetically modified products as food security, clean environment, healthy food and national production. The network of opponents frames them as risks to environment and human health and a scheme for the intrusion and manipulation of the agricultural system particularly in developing countries. The dominance of a group of frames has different consequences for society.

Keywords

• genetically modified products
• controversy
• networks
• frames