Making Sense of Quantum Technology: Nuance and Comparison in Non-Expert Stakeholder Communication

Abstract: The development of quantum technology (QT) is partly driven by a growing group of non-expert stakeholders, such as policymakers, journalists, and philosophers. Although many of these stakeholders have minimal formal training in quantum science, their communications may greatly influence the QT ecosystem, yet research into it is scarce. We therefore explored the use of framing, metaphors, and jargon by non-expert QT stakeholders through a qualitative content analysis of 12 semi-structured interviews. We found that the stakeholders applied a nuanced lens to QT, typically through socioeconomic framing. Several types of framing previously unidentified in the literature were found, such as explaining QT by comparison with current (emerging) technologies, for example, artificial Intelligence, in terms of capabilities and implementation in society. The use of stakeholder desiderata in such research was also found to be subsidiary to the stakeholder's occupation. This explorative study is meant to serve as a starting point for future studies of this stakeholder group.