New Biotechnology in the Media – An Analysis of Leading German-Language Media Outlets
A research project at Weihenstephan-Triesdorf University of Applied Sciences
New genetic technologies such as CRISPR are considered promising innovations for the agriculture of the future. But how are they perceived by the public? An interdisciplinary research project addressed this question, conducting the first systematic study of how leading German media outlets report on new genetic technologies—with a particular focus on the period from 2012 to 2023.
Changing Patterns of Media Interpretation
The research team analyzed approximately 600 newspaper articles from the Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, Süddeutsche Zeitung, taz, and DIE WELT. Using computer-assisted topic modeling methods and qualitative frame analysis, they identified key themes and patterns of interpretation.
The results reveal a shift: While reporting was initially heavily influenced by social and ethical concerns, positive narratives have increasingly come to the fore in recent years—particularly with regard to productivity gains, innovation potential, and scientific progress in the field of plant breeding.
The study provides important insights into how new technologies are discussed in public discourse, thereby contributing to evidence-based science communication and the formation of political opinion.
Weihenstephan-Triesdorf University of Applied Sciences (HSWT), Faculty of Agriculture, Food & Nutrition
Project Management: Hanno Kossmann, David Barkhausen
Publication