Environmental and health risks caused by chemical substances have been intensively debated in various arenas of science and policy, and in news media. The impacts of risk debates on the public have been widely studied, while less attention has been paid to expert views. We present results from a cross-national survey charting expert views on the…

Environmental quality is essential for all human activities. The relationship of environmental issues to other societal concerns such as the economy, agricultural productivity, and human health must be considered or human populations will perish. (WB)

An experimental and theoretical investigation into the range and nature of exposure of the nonsmoking public to respirable suspended particulates from cigarette smoke is reported. An assessment of public health policy implications is presented. (Author/RE)

It is suggested that a system of relative standards be formulated which would compare utility of substances to their relative risk as carcinogens. This would define a range of use restrictions. Substances intended for specific uses would then be regulated according to these standards. (Author/RE)

Discussed is the pragmatic basis for involving the public in radioactive waste decisions. A model approach to involving the public in preparation of a national radioactive waste disposal plan is outlined. (RE)

This book looks at a sampling of notable socio-technical problems within a rational context. It seeks to determine if problems exist with recent decisions in the application of technology; how threatening any problems may be; the source of problems; and examines alternatives available to the nation. The broad goal of this rational consideration is…

The projects suggested in this collection of activities have a dual emphasis on: (1) inquiry by the students, using methods of social science, into health and health care in the community; and (2) the communication by the students of their observations and conclusions to the community at large or to selected groups or agencies within the…