Interpreting the Precautionary Principle

About this book

The Precautionary Principle - that public and private interests should act to prevent harm - is fundamental to the protection of the environment. This book gives an account of the history of the idea, examines its implications, and offers practical guidelines for those encountering this important and controversial topic for the first time.

Contents

Foreword * Part I - History and Context of the Precautionary Principle: The History and Contemporary Significance of the Precautionary Principle * The precautionary Principle in Germany - Enabling Government * Part II - Implications for Science: Editorial Introduction * Precaution, Science and the Sin of Hubris * What if? Versus If it Ain't Broke Don't Fix It * Taking Care * The Social Construction of Precaution * Part III - Implications for Management: Editorial Introduction * The Precautionary Principle and Economic Analysis * The Precautionary Principle and Moral Values * How the Media Respond to Precaution * The Regulation of Genetically Modified Organisms * the Precautionary Principle in Local Government * Part IV - The International Dimension: Editorial Introduction * The Precautionary Principle in US Environmental Law * The Introduction of Precautionary Principle in the UK * The Precautionary Principle in Australia * The Status of the Precautionary Principle in International Law * Part V - The Future: Seeping through the Pores

Customer Reviews

Biography

Timothy O'Riordan is Professor of Environmental Studies at the University of East Anglia. James Cameron is a barrister, and a foundling Director of the Foundation for International Law and Development (FIELD).