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An open systems approach to risk assessment

S W Samuels1

  • 1Workplace Health Fund (IUD/AFL-CIO), Washington, DC.

American Journal of Industrial Medicine
|March 1, 1994
PubMed
Summary

This study outlines occupational and environmental cancer risk assessment, highlighting differing assumptions between Doll and Selikoff. It advocates for an open system approach, characteristic of living systems, for more accurate cancer control models.

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Area of Science:

  • Occupational Health
  • Environmental Science
  • Cancer Control

Background:

  • Risk assessment is crucial for occupational and environmental cancer control.
  • Differing philosophical perspectives influenced early risk assessment approaches by Doll and Selikoff.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To outline the development of risk assessment in cancer control.
  • To explain the philosophical underpinnings of closed versus open system approaches.
  • To advocate for an open system model in risk assessment.

Main Methods:

  • Historical review of risk assessment development.
  • Philosophical analysis of closed and open system approaches.
  • Heuristic argument for open systems in risk assessment.

Main Results:

  • Doll and Selikoff employed differing assumptions rooted in distinct philosophical viewpoints.
  • Closed and open system approaches to risk assessment were identified.
  • Open systems, characterized by negative entropy and progressive organization, are proposed as more suitable for risk assessment.

Conclusions:

  • Risk assessment models should emulate the characteristics of living systems, favoring an open approach.
  • Misapplication of either system can lead to "contrived confusion," undermining societal trust.

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