The Risk Society Revisited

Social Theory and Governance

The subject of "risk society," especially is various theoretical conceptualizations, is unbelievably complex; the writings of Ulrich Beck, Anthony Giddens are anything but clear and straightforward, many would say impenetrable, especially of Giddens. The same can be said of Niklas Luhmann's work. With that said, each is an extraordinarily well-known theorist who each has pushed the notion of increasing risk in society in major ways as a cause and consequence of modernization. The proposal's authors have cleverly altered the title to "Society at Risk" to make room for an expanded view (beyond Beck) of risk in late modernity. All three authors are experts on risk, with particular acknowledgement of Gene Rosa and Ortwin Renn. Aaron McCright is an up and coming young sociologist who has completed path-breaking research of the production of climate change denial in the U.S. -- Thomas Webler

"In the introduction the authors acknowledge the long-term structural and cultural changes that pushed us into a risk society. They argue that since there will always be real risks there is a need for concrete strategies to improve human ability and capacity to manage risk…. The book is timely in providing theoretical support for many calls for more participative approaches in, for instance, risk communication and governance, regional planning, and public policy." --American Journal of Sociology