Are we being prudent, precautionary, or both?

Area of Science:

• Radiological Protection
• Ethics in Science
• Environmental Risk Assessment

Background:

• The International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) is reviewing the ethical foundations of its System of Radiological Protection.
• Prudence is identified as a core ethical value, often used interchangeably with the Precautionary Principle in recent publications.
• This interchangeable use creates confusion, especially concerning environmental protection.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the definitions and historical applications of 'Prudence' and the 'Precautionary Principle' within ICRP publications.
• To analyze the evolution and interrelation of these two concepts.
• To identify ambiguities and suggest clarifications for improved understanding.

Main Methods:

• Content and semantic analysis of 103 International Commission on Radiological Protection (ICRP) publications.
• Tracing the historical usage and contextual meaning of 'Prudence' and the 'Precautionary Principle'.

Main Results:

• The study reveals distinct meanings and histories for 'Prudence' and the 'Precautionary Principle' despite their frequent pairing.
• Ambiguities in the application and understanding of these terms have been identified.
• The relationship between the two concepts has evolved over time within ICRP literature.

Conclusions:

• Clarifying the definitions of 'Prudence' and the 'Precautionary Principle' is crucial for the ICRP.
• The ongoing ICRP review offers a timely opportunity to stabilize these terms.
• Improved clarity will enhance the common understanding and management of radiological risk.