High support for nanotechnology in China: A case study in Dalian

Public perception of nanotechnology is important as it helps scientists and policy makers understand how the public decides whether or not to support the development of these technologies. To examine the public's perception and attitude toward nanotechnology in China, we conducted a case study in Dalian through a survey in 2013 (N = 741). Support for the technology was indicated by 96.6% of the sample. This sample also had the highest self-reported awareness of nanotechnology worldwide, with 88.4% of the sample reporting having heard of nanotechnology, although they possessed little knowledge about the technology. Support was associated more with beliefs (e.g. expectations for nanotechnology, trust, benefit/risk ratio) than with knowledge. Mass media news reports and advertisements were the top means of communication about nanotechnology. It is very possible that the rate of support for nanotechnology may change in future, as with support for genetically modified food.