Quantified Risk in a Democratic Society

THE EMPHASIS IN THIS ANALYSIS is on the word “democratic”. We live in a democratic society, and we intend to continue to do so. If risk analysis is to have a useful contribution to our society it must fit itself into its democratic decision making structure. If necessary, it must subordinate itself to this democratic tradition.

The subject being considered is complex. In order to provide some coherence to the presentation, the following approach will be adopted:

• First, the societal framework will be mapped out.
• Second, quantified risk analysis itself will be defined.
• Third, its status will be analyzed by means of a case study.
• Fourth, some conclusions will be drawn.