Perception of fusion energy among selected sections of the population
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Commissioned by: Max-Planck-Institut für Plasmaphysik, IPP
Funded by: Freundeskreis der Fusion
Brief description
The disputes over nuclear energy, Stuttgart 21 (rebuilding of Stuttgart’s main station to an underground through station), radioactive waste, green genetic engineering and nanotechnology show that innovative technology developments increasingly are ex-posed to an ‘acceptance test’ in the public. This test may delay or even prevent a devel-opment, but it may also indicate possible failures and induce corrective measures.
Fusion technology to generate electricity is being developed since several decades, but a commercial breakthrough is to be expected only in another few decades. However, it is already controversial whether the high investment required for further R&D work is justified or not.
The empirical study carried out by DIALOGIK analyses the perception and evaluation of fusion energy by selected sections of the population. The study shall identify emerg-ing patterns of perception and develop on this basis the main features of an effective risk communication program. Four focus groups with selected sections of the popula-tion will be arranged for investigating emergent perception patterns.
On the basis of the research results the project team will produce a plan showing how to carry out dialogues constructively and effectively in the future. The plan will comprise possible ways to include communication and information services in future processes of fusion energy development as well as methods and procedures for implementing this inclusion communicatively in an effective and efficient manner.
Duration
DIALOGIK team
Ludger Benighaus, Dipl. Geogr.
Jörg Hilpert, M.A.
Oliver Scheel, M.A.
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