Creating Space for the Successor: The Discourse Strategies of Pro- and Anti-GM Factions Regarding the Future of Agriculture in New Zealand

Abstract

A struggle between different forms of food production for the future of agriculture space has been occurring in many regions of the world. Drawing on the literature of the geography of food and the theory of productive worlds, we propose that the discourse strategies deployed by competing actors should be considered part of the set of conventions that guide productive activities. Two examples of discourse strategies are outlined: the use of articulation to position a desired outcome within a historically resonant discourse in order to gain legitimacy; and the maintenance of a strategic tension between isomorphism and differentiation such that a stance is perceived as a credible choice. We describe and map the impacts of these discourse strategies as they were deployed by anti- and pro-genetic modification groups in the struggle to become the “natural” successor to New Zealand's conventional agricultural heritage. The shifts in discourse positions of the two protagonists highlight the increased hybridity and regional complexity of the worlds of food and the battle for agricultural space.

Acknowledgement

The authors would like to acknowledge and thank research assistant, Jude Barlow, for her extensive efforts in secondary data collation.

Notes

There are numerous websites with such timelines, each probably serving the particular purpose of the host, e.g. see http://www.odofin.com/english/history.htm for a site with the header “Biotechnology—the Food Solution”.

GM and genetic engineering (GE) are terms that are often used inter-changeably, although it is acknowledged that some anti-GE groups oppose the use of the term GM on the grounds that “modification” is a softer term than “engineering”. Given the usage dominance of the abbreviation in most countries, we will use GM in this paper except in direct quotations of sources that use GE or GMO (genetically modified organisms).

This organic production also included non-food outputs such as cosmetics, etc.

A portion of the anti-GM discourse was based on spiritual or cultural concerns, which did not alter over time. This component is not the subject of this analysis.

The Sustainability Council's purpose was to assist the realization of a sustainable New Zealand and included an objective to provide information to assist well-informed and effective community participation in decision-making on issues related to sustainability.

One contained GM field trial was approved through the regulatory system for GM onions.

Cooke (2007) has observed that there appears to be uncertain evidence as to whether any positive health impacts result from functional foods.