Presentation scheduled for the 2008 American Mensa Annual Gathering in Denver, Colorado, Saturday, 07/05/2008, 12:00 - 01:15 PM

Use of the Precautionary Principle When Science Evokes Global Risk

The precautionary principle reverses the burden of proof in cases of scientific risk. Normally scientific publication requires good evidence that one's theories are true. In cases of scientific risk precaution does not wait to prove a risk. Instead those who propose risky experiments have the burden of proving them safe. The precautionary principle is accepted by many risk specialists. However, it presents philosophical difficulties and is disliked by some scientists. Current global risk case studies highlight its value and its problems.

James Blodgett, MS, MBA, MA, is Coordinator of the Global Risk Reduction Special Interest Group, Contact Person for Risk Evaluation Forum, a member of the ethics advisory board for the Lifeboat Foundation, and a member of the Society for Risk Analysis.

Presentation given at the 2007 Annual Gathering in Birmingham, Alabama

Global Risk Reduction

Here is your chance to save the world, or at least to have a good think about the issues and choices involved. Several threats could eliminate our species, with varying probabilities and varying potential solutions. Current public thought on this could sometimes use improvement, so there is room for intellectual contribution, there is work to be done. We will review the range of global risk issues, possible solutions, and their costs and challenges.