Exploring farmers attitudes towards genetically modified crops in northwest Bangladesh on the ground of epistemic emotions and cognitions

Abstract

All GM crops fall into either the herbicide-tolerant (HT) or insect-resistant (IR) category. These crops play a crucial role in feeding the global population and ensuring food security for a larger number of population. However, the extent to which current assessments of supply-side effects inform food policy and cultivation decisions remains unclear. To advance knowledge in this area, it is essential to address existing evidence gaps and methodological design issues, which will influence the direction of future research. This study focuses on epistemological preferences among farmers in nortwest Bangladesh, aiming to modestly guide some direction for GM crops cultivation. The findings from the study reveal three distinct attitudinal discourses among investigated farmers. Some farmers are inclined to be positive toward the cultivation of GM crops, expecting benefits. Another group is more cautious, wary of the potential risks associated with GM crops but still likely to be reluctant adopters. A third group demonstrates a somewhat fatalistic perspective toward adopting GM crop cultivation, as revealed through the use of Q methodology. These findings contribute significantly to the ongoing GM debate by elaborating on the views of farmers from these three distinct groups and informing the design of policies related to GM crops.