Lay and Expert Apprehension of Technological Risks

Čaldarović, Ognjen and Škanata, Dejan. (1995). Lay and Expert Apprehension of Technological Risks. Socijalna ekologija, 4(4). pp. 361-386. ISSN 1330-0113

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Abstract

The paper dissertates two basic approaches to hazards and risks. The first, lay approach, which is the most widespread in general public, founds its risk perception and assessment of on a range of elements not based on measurement, classification and knowledge of real dimensions of hazards and risks. It is based on specific value characteristics that are attributed to risks as complex phenomena. Expert risk assessment, on the other hand, is based on measurement, tolerance doses and trust in risk control by various technological measures. Expert approach categorizes risks, classifies them and defines the risk acceptances limits using various methods. The paper shows that the two approaches start from different assumptions and value frameworks, pointing to the most important reasons of their mutual intolerance. Authors describe the main methods of expert risk assessment, and main characteristics of lay risk perception which should be taken into account when so-called "lay reactions" to risks are being considered. The conclusive part of the paper points out the basic reasons for differences between lay and expert approaches to risks, as well as the most important presumptions for overcoming the differences.

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