ABSTRACT
We live in a time when the planet we live on and all its inhabitants are at risk. Politics, economics, science, health, the state of the environment — every piece of news about risk involves all these elements. The public is tired of failed promises and of being treated in a condescending manner. Scientists and engineers are distressed because the media and public misinterpret their complex research.” There is a much better chance of long-term success, if all the facts, assumptions, and uncertainties are made public. The public worries greatly about pesticides and nuclear radiation, but worries little about heavy drinking or wearing seat belts or driving 70 miles an hour. Spending huge sums attacking the wrong risks runs the risk of neglecting far greater ones. There can be logic, or at least legitimate personal choice, in public acceptance of some risky activities or technologies, while the public may reject others that are less risky.
