ABSTRACT
Recent discourse on risk society has been dominated by postmodern reflections on human experience. Modernity has been interpreted as a triumphant progress propelled by rational and scientific optimism: advances in science and technology have allowed people to exert control over risks. But modernity itself is now challenged by newly emerging risks. We are witnessing a growth in uncontrollable risks, such as bovine spongiform encephalopathy, pathogenic avian influenza, and the pollution of water, air and earth. ‘Uncontrollable risk’ is an oxymoron, because risk is defined as a calculable and controllable threat, unlike ‘danger’, which causes direct and physical damage.
