Research is underway to evaluate the usefulness of FSnet, Agnet, and AnimalNet as risk analysis tools, augmenting existing risk assessment, management and communication activities, as well as technology transfer mechanisms. Underlying much of this research activity is the relationship between science and society. In risk controversies, it is common for scientists to state that the public needs to be better educated about science. Even public opinion polls about scientific literacy send a tacit message that public understanding of science will provide a solution to technological controversies. Yet risk communication theory argues that trust is more important than science in the public arena.
Science is important, but so are regulatory actions and notions of accountability.
In other words, scientists and science need to better understand the public. FSnet, Agnet, and AnimalNet are such tools, providing scientists and regulators with current, generalized, public risk perception information regarding rapidly changing risk scenarios. References Consumers' Association of Canada. Food Safety in Canada. Covello, V.T, 1992.