ABSTRACT
The controversy surrounding BSE (bovine spongiform encephalopathy) holds many implications for the interface of politics, media, economics and health in the UK and the rest of the world. It is nearly impossible to discuss “mad cow disease” without taking into account not only scientific evidence, but also the political and economic agendas of the parties involved. Some of the stakeholders in this crisis include Government officials, who seek to protect the safety, prosperity, and support of their constituents; consumers, who want to protect their health and rights; scientists, who make projections and attempt to quantify risks; and media professionals, who attempt to inform the public while keeping interest levels high.
