The perception of technological risks: A literature review

Journal Article · Mon Aug 01 04:00:00 EDT 1983 · Technol. Forecasting Social Change; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/0040-1625(83)90032-X· OSTI ID:5093754

Covello, V T

In response to rising concern about technological risks, a concerted effort is being made to improve risk analysis methods and risk management approaches. As part of this effort, behavioral and social scientists have produced a substantial body of knowledge of value to risk analysts and decision makers. This paper focuses on behavioral and social science studies of human intellectual limitations in thinking about risk, factors influencing risk attitudes and perceptions, and factors contributing to social conflicts and disputes about technological activities. A basic assumption of the paper is that analysts and decision makers can benefit from a better understanding of how experts and nonexperts think and make decisions about technological risks. Without such understanding, well-intended policies may be ineffective or even counterproductive.

• Research Organization: National Science Foundation, Washington, DC
• OSTI ID: 5093754
• Journal Information: Technol. Forecasting Social Change; (United States), Journal Name: Technol. Forecasting Social Change; (United States) Vol. 23:4; ISSN TFSCB
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

29 ENERGY PLANNING, POLICY, AND ECONOMY
290200* -- Energy Planning & Policy-- Economics & Sociology
ATTITUDES
BEHAVIOR
DECISION MAKING
HAZARDS
HUMAN FACTORS
PERSONNEL
RISK ASSESSMENT
SOCIAL IMPACT
SOCIOLOGY
TECHNOLOGY IMPACTS
TECHNOLOGY UTILIZATION