The Illusion of Certainty: Health Benefits and Risks

by Erik Rifkin, Edward Bouwer

This book provides an understanding and appreciation of the risk assessment process and the ability to objectively interpret health risk values. Included is an explanation of the uncertainty inherent in the assessment of risks as well as an explanation of how the communication and characterization of risks can dramatically alter the perception of those risks. Case studies illustrate the strengths and limitations of characterizing certain risks. Using the accepted risk assessment paradigm proposed by the National Research Council, these case studies illustrate which risk values have merit and why other assessments fail to meet basic criteria.

259 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2007

Reviews

[Jamie]

I think this book really helps to set perspective and encourages the reader to look at issues more critically

[Colin]

Here's the book: absolute risk differs from relative risk; and the "theater" of risk idea works kinda well in explaining risk, but not that well.

The end.

You can skip this book. Not much here. I commend the author for effort.