The acceptability and the tolerability of societal risks: a capabilities-based approach

Area of Science:

• Risk Analysis
• Societal Impact Assessment
• Human Capabilities

Background:

• Current risk assessment methods have limitations.
• Societal impact of hazards needs a more robust evaluation framework.
• Individual well-being is central to risk perception.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a Capabilities-based Approach for evaluating risk acceptability and tolerability.
• To define risk assessment based on societal impact and individual capabilities.
• To offer a transparent and communicable framework for risk analysis.

Main Methods:

• Defining risk acceptability based on the probability of capabilities falling below an acceptable threshold.
• Defining risk tolerability based on temporary and reversible dips below the acceptable threshold, with a strict minimum tolerable threshold.
• Evaluating societal impact through changes in individuals' capabilities (functionings and beings).

Main Results:

• A novel framework for risk acceptability and tolerability is proposed.
• The approach focuses on the impact of risks on individual well-being.
• The Capabilities-based Approach offers transparency and communicability in risk assessment.

Conclusions:

• The Capabilities-based Approach provides a superior alternative to existing risk assessment methodologies.
• It directly addresses the core concern of how risks affect societal well-being.
• This framework enhances the clarity and practicality of determining acceptable and tolerable risk levels.