Abstract

The governance of risk has become an increasingly 'hot subject' as recent technological controversies have ignited significant levels of public alarm in a wide range of diverse arenas in distinct geographical locations. Recent controversies have led to the very questioning of more traditional forms of risk management as technical and scientific expertise is increasingly questioned by the public as regards its ability to manage contemporary risks adequately. Despite the existence of a wide range of literature discussing various elements of risk management the assumptions embedded within this literature are that risks can essentially be prevented, controlled and managed with the accumulation of scientific knowledge. Contemporary risks however can be characterized by the lack of scientific knowledge regarding a) the elements that constitute these risks and b) their very existence. The relationship between science and society, experts and laypeople, technocrats and citizens needs to be redefined to reflect this new reality of 'uncertainty'.