REN R360 Lecture Notes - Precautionary Principle, Statistical Significance
4 Mar 2013
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Document Summary
The history and definitions of the precautionary principle: Precautionary principle says that we should aim to anticipate and avoid damages before they occur or detect them early. It is based on underlying values and on the following core elements: Potential harm predicting and avoiding harm, or identifying it early, should be a primary concern when contemplating an action. Scientific uncertainty the kind and degree of scientific uncertainty surrounding a proposed activity should be explicitly addressed. Precautionary action particular activity undertaken to avoid harm, even when the harm is not fully understood. The principle is based on recognizing that some activities may cause serious, irreparable or widespread harm. The principle is based on the assumption that people have a responsibility to preserve the natural foundation of life, now and into the future. A precautionary approach is based on determining how much harm can be avoided rather then deciding how much harm is acceptable or how much can be assimilated.
