Research into genetically modified organisms in New Zealand: an examination of a sociotechnical controversy

New Zealand is known around the world as a country that is clean, green and “100% Pure.” The existence of genetically modified organisms in New Zealand is generally viewed as inconsistent with this identity, and there is therefore considerable public controversy surrounding research that utilises genetic modification techniques. In this paper, I examine the variety of interacting factors that are serving to shape this controversy, the influence it is having on research practices, and the implications for future risk management polic