Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, Funk Library, University of Illinois Document Number: D08636
Notes:
Located in Review of Extension Studies, volumes for 1946-1956, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Washington, D.C., Summary of research report. Pennsylvania Agricultural Experiment Station, University Park. Progress Report No. 134. 20 pages.
Agricultural Communications Documentation Center, Funk Library, University of Illinois Box: 134 Document Number: D11401
Notes:
30 pages., Online via website., "Despite the growing use of genetically modified crops over the past 20 years, most Americans say they know only a little about GM foods. And many people appear to hold 'soft' views about the health effects of GM foods, saying they are not sure about whether such foods are better or worse for one's health. ... a majority of Americans perceive disagreement in the scientific community over whether or not GM foods are safe to eat. And, only a minority of Americans perceive scientists as having a strong understanding of the health risks and benefits of GM foods."
James F. Evans Collection, Using data obtained from National Opinion Research Center's General Social Surveys (1973-1990), this paper tests two hypotheses concerning possible changes in the sociopolitical correlates of environmental concern. The "broadening base" hypothesis predicts that environmental concern will diffuse throughout the populace, while the "economic contingency" hypothesis predicts that the economically deprived will disproportionally withdraw support for environmental protection during poor economic conditions. analysis of the data over the 18 years, however, failed to lend any clear support for either of the hypotheses. In marked contrast, results indicate that the social bases of environmental concern-at least as measured by the NORC environmental spending item-have remained remarkably stable over nearly two decades despite fluctuating economic, political, and environmental conditions. Younger adults, the well-educated, political liberals, Democrats, those raised and currently living in urban areas, and those employed outside of primary industries were found to be consistently more supportive of environmental protection than were their respective counterparts. (original)
The views of veterinarians towards the changes that are occurring in professional practice with respect to competition and advertising are examined and compared with the views expressed in a similar study carried out 3 years previously. Data was derived from self completion questionnaires containing 40 Likert scales which were mailed to 300 members of the profession, first in 1985 and then in 1988. The moves made by the New Zealand Veterinary Association since 1985 in relaxing the rules on promotion appear to have largely alleviated any frustrations that were building up amongst the membership at that time. However, the study suggests that the profession will still find the boundaries of acceptable behaviour being tested by entrepreneurial practitioners. (author)
