ABSTRACT:
Biotechnologies structure a fast-growing scientific-technological field and a battlefield involving interests and (un)certainties about its benefic or harmful effects. We conducted a comparative case study between chemistry teachers from an urban school and a rural school in Mato Grosso do Sul, analyzing their understandings on risks and controversies of genetically modified organisms. Professors’ statements indicate negligence in relation to scientific controversies, relying on a supposed certainty, objectivity and neutrality of science to support technocratic decisions. We conclude that the understandings have little link to the context and we consider that chemistry/scientific education can start from unveiling values and mythical image of Science to promote studying the controversies, aiming the democratic participation in decision-making.
Keywords:
Biotechnologies; Transgenic; Controversies