ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the evolutions as a consequence of attempts to 'normalise' uncertainty by integrating it, as 'non-conclusive evidence', in an established model of the nature of scientific knowledge, as 'truth revealing', and of its relation with public policy-making as 'sound science-based decision-making'. It argues that there is a need for alternative approaches. Complex issues, such as those of the environment and human health, often prove to be the subject of intractable policy controversies. Uncertainty in the available knowledge base of such issues is therefore often identified as a major cause of dispute. The adequacy of the narrow model of science-based decision-making has been seriously challenged by a substantial amount of in-depth studies of cases and controversies related to issues for which uncertainty appeared to be salient: risks from consumer chemicals, endocrine disruptors, dioxins, genetically modified organisms and radiation.
