Open Access

Susanne Kinnebrock, Helena Bilandzic

• Journalism is expected to cover science objectively as well as critically. New findings and limitations of studies should be part of science news. Since journalists discuss the limitations of studies as well as problematic results for non-expert audiences, they are constrained to transform criticism of scientific evidence according to media logics and the common sense of a public at large. The presentation of an understandable and convincing narrative is one way to question the findings of studies and to present problematic research. A hermeneutic analysis of press articles on genomic research shows how critical articles make intensive use of storytelling, a strategy well-established in journalism. To unmask problematic research, the articles use personalization, stereotyping and narrativization: The long process of research is condensed to actions of single persons; conflict is accentuated; common negative stereotypes (the “mad scientist”, the “sinister manager” or the “corrupt andJournalism is expected to cover science objectively as well as critically. New findings and limitations of studies should be part of science news. Since journalists discuss the limitations of studies as well as problematic results for non-expert audiences, they are constrained to transform criticism of scientific evidence according to media logics and the common sense of a public at large. The presentation of an understandable and convincing narrative is one way to question the findings of studies and to present problematic research. A hermeneutic analysis of press articles on genomic research shows how critical articles make intensive use of storytelling, a strategy well-established in journalism. To unmask problematic research, the articles use personalization, stereotyping and narrativization: The long process of research is condensed to actions of single persons; conflict is accentuated; common negative stereotypes (the “mad scientist”, the “sinister manager” or the “corrupt and greedy company”) are applied; and variations of mythological stories are presented (e.g. the punishment of human hubris, the interference with divine creation, the revenge of nature). References to the seven deadly sins and biblical language are a recurring theme. In sum, these rhetorical strategies question and distract from the scientific evidence and underline ethical positions against genomic research.…