Public attitudes toward nanotechnology applications in Taiwan

In view of the complex interaction between new emerging technology and society, the importance of the public attitudes toward nanotechnology applications should not be ignored. This study aims to examine the determinants that have influences upon benefits and risks perceptions of nanotechnology applications, which in turn influences the public attitudes toward nanotechnology applications in Taiwan. Of a total of 1500 self-reported questionnaire survey that was carried out in 2010 in Taiwan, 888 were found useful for this empirical analysis. In line with previous studies, the results of this empirical study conducted in Taiwan reveal that the public attitudes toward nanotechnology applications is found to be determined by their perceived benefits and risks of applying nanotechnology. The public's perceived benefits and risks of applying nanotechnology are, as expected, further determined by its attitudes toward technology, nanotechnology knowledge, and social trust in the related institutions. Based on the empirical results from this study, attempts will be made to provide suggestions to the government and the related parties. (C) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.