Perception des risques nucléaires

Abstract

Many factors are involved in the perception of a risk by individuals. Some are individual related (psychology, knowledge, expérience), others describe the social environment (culture, ideology), others at end precise the nature of the risk. The word risk has various meanings and is understood differently by the three main categories involved in risk management, that is engineers, administrators and lay public Several models which describe the perception phenomenon are presented. The dimensions affecting perception are listed. Based on public opinion poll data, a risk taxonomy is proposed, perceived nuclear risks are compared with other risks, and results are given concerning trust in the information diffused and the credibiliry of those in charge of nuclear activities. © 1996 EDP Sciences.