Government Ministers are responsible for making national policy decisions, but ordinary people have a big role to play in influencing those decisions through dialogue.
Those who have taken part in dialogue activities are almost universally enthusiastic about the experience. They say they welcome the chance to have their views heard directly by policy makers. They appreciate the chance to meet with scientists and other experts as equals not in an inferior capacity. They feel their opinions are respected and will be listened to by policy makers.
Moreover, many people who take part in public dialogue activities find that the experience has a considerable impact on themselves as individuals.
They become more knowledgeable and confident about science and technology once the issues have been 'de-mystified' and dissected at their own pace. They get to know the differing points of view held by people from different cultures and walks of life and in so doing make new friends. They feel empowered to speak out and want to carry on doing so.
