Talking About Genetically Modified (GM) Foods in South Korea: The Role of the Internet in the Spiral of Silence Process

Abstract

Using the issue of genetically modified foods, this study examines how the Internet may affect the spiral of silence phenomenon in South Korea. More specifically, we explore whether the Internet has created a social environment, where people can exchange opinions more freely without being fearful of social isolation. Analyzing data from an online survey, we first examine whether the Internet can play a role as a source of information, from which people assess the climates of public opinion. Also examined is whether the opinions of netizens can comprise another form of opinion climate, exerting pressure on one's willingness to speak out. Finally, we explore whether expressing an opinion on the Internet is subject to the pressure of opinion climates. Findings suggest that the Internet may play an important role in shaping people's perceptions of opinion climates. Perceived opinion congruence with other people were significantly associated with one's willingness to participate in an online forum, indicating that expressing an opinion on the Internet may be subject to the spiral of silence effect. We conclude that the Internet in South Korea may not have helped to diminish the social pressure that keeps citizens from expressing a minority view.

Notes

¹The news articles and transcripts were retrieved from the KINDS database, a Korean version of LexisNexis.

²In theory, participating in an online forum in South Korea is not entirely anonymous. In an effort to counter criminal activities, online slander, and cyberbullying, the South Korean government has maintained the real-name online verification law, which requires Internet users to log in first with their real names—verified by social security numbers—before they post a comment or join a forum. Exchanging opinions online, however, has been largely anonymous. Although the law allows the authority to trace the identity of the person posting a specific message, it does not allow ordinary citizens to do the same. At the same time, Internet users are not required to use their real names when posting messages or participating in a forum. The identity of Internet users, therefore, remains largely anonymous. Recently, in August 2012, the Supreme Court ruled the law unconstitutional, claiming that it violates the freedom of speech right.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Sei-Hill Kim

Sei-Hill Kim (Ph.D., Cornell University, 2001) is a Professor in the School of Journalism and Mass Communications at University of South Carolina. His research interests include science and health communications.

Hwalbin Kim

Hwalbin Kim (M.S., Ohio University, 2010) is a doctoral student at the School of Journalism and Mass Communications at University of South Carolina. His research interests include science communication and media effects.

Sang-Hwa Oh

Sang-Hwa Oh (Ph.D., University of South Carolina, 2014) is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Communication at Appalachian State University. Her research interests include health and science communications.