Psychological factors behind incidental information acquisition

This paper discusses incidental information acquisition in the light of psychological aspects. A theoretical introduction is followed by an account of three research projects where incidental information acquisition was related to personality traits, approaches to studying, and emotions. The respondents were grades 6–12, master's thesis, and mature library and information science (LIS) students representing an age range of 12–53 years. An energetic personality, high motivation, and positive emotionality were shown to enhance likelihood for incidental acquisition, while low motivation, stress, and insecurity reduced receptivity.     

Democratizing Decision-Making on Food Safety in the EU: Closing Gaps between Principles of Governance and Practice

Food safety is a preoccupation of the European Commission, but there are major shortcomings in its governance. Reviewing legislation and practice, this paper explores the background of EU food safety institutions, and develops recommendations to make the EU decision process more transparent, accountable, and democratic.