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Swaying public opinion on nuclear energy: A field experiment in Hong Kong

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  • Kwok, Tin Fai
  • Yeung, Chung Hang
  • Xu, Yuan

Abstract

This research focuses on understanding the significance of information in affecting public opinion. Nuclear energy is among the most controversial of policy issues and the information-saturated mature civil society of Hong Kong makes it an ideal location for this study. A novel field experiment is set up in which pro-nuclear and anti-nuclear information collected from local media reports is inserted into two identical questionnaires, to which respondents are randomly assigned. The percentage of the public who switched their opinion was estimated to be 5–37%, depending on the framing of the question.

Suggested Citation

  • Kwok, Tin Fai & Yeung, Chung Hang & Xu, Yuan, 2017. "Swaying public opinion on nuclear energy: A field experiment in Hong Kong," Utilities Policy, Elsevier, vol. 46(C), pages 48-57.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:juipol:v:46:y:2017:i:c:p:48-57
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jup.2017.04.001
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Chung, Sum Yue & Xu, Yuan, 2020. "Reliability and resilience in a regulated electricity market: Hong Kong under Typhoon Mangkhut," Utilities Policy, Elsevier, vol. 67(C).
    2. Huang, Gillan Chi-Lun & Chen, Rung-Yi & Park, Byung-Bae, 2021. "Democratic innovations as a party tool: A comparative analysis of nuclear energy public participation in Taiwan and South Korea," Energy Policy, Elsevier, vol. 153(C).
    3. Gencer, Busra & van Ackere, Ann, 2021. "Achieving long-term renewable energy goals: Do intermediate targets matter?," Utilities Policy, Elsevier, vol. 71(C).
    4. Wang, Shanyong & Wang, Jing & Lin, Shoufu & Li, Jun, 2020. "How and when does information publicity affect public acceptance of nuclear energy?," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 198(C).

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