Title: An ethical analysis of the precautionary principle

Authors: Marc A. Saner

Addresses: Ethics & Policy Issues Centre, Department of Philosophy, Carleton University, 1125 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6, Canada

Abstract: The debate over the precautionary principle is intimately linked with values and worldviews. I examine how diverging conceptions of ||the good world|| affect the conceptualisation of the precautionary principle. Three complementary conceptualisations emerge; 1) a call for a change in attitude, 2) a prescription for formalistic action and 3) guidance for contextual action. I apply these conceptualisations to two extreme forms of implementations, a minimal and maximum change approach. I conclude by conducting risk evaluations of the second order. What are the risks of implementing the precautionary principle into risk evaluation?

Keywords: precautionary principle; ethics; analysis; meaning; contextual; formalistic; paradox; Pascal|s Wager; Buridan|s Ass; risk assessment; risk management.

DOI: 10.1504/IJBT.2002.000181

International Journal of Biotechnology, 2002 Vol.4 No.1, pp.81-95

Published online: 13 Jul 2003 *

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