Environmental Risk, Governance and Society

Module description

The module starts by examining contemporary social theoretical explanations of the salience of risk within so-called 'late modern' society.  The module then explores the factors that shape the politics, processes and outcomes of risk governance, as well as the factors that shape public perceptions of environmental risk and the associated problems posed for policy-makers, businesses and other stakeholders in communicating risk issues.  The module finishes with reflections on the future management of environmental risk issues.

Assessment details

Group Work Portfolio (20%); 2000 Word Coursework (80%)

Educational aims & objectives

The educational aims of this module are to:

1. Improve understanding of the concepts and social theories of risk
2. Develop knowledge of the processes and politics of environmental risk assessment, perception, communication and governance
3. Develop your team-working skills and ability to apply your academic knowledge to real world cases

Learning outcomes

At the completion of the module, students should have:

• A broad understanding of the concept of risk and of the different ways in which it figures in social theories
• Appreciate the implications of those theories for explaining the processes and politics of environmental risk assessment, perception, communication and governance
• Be able to collaborate effectively in the application of their understanding and knowledge to the analysis of contemporary debates about environmental risk policy

Teaching pattern

Combines pre-recorded lectures and 10 x 2hr seminar discussions

The module has been designed to promote an active learning style, through a combination of pre-recorded lectures, readings and small group work by students that provide the basis for weekly seminar presentations and discussions on the following topics [note individual sessions are subject to change]:

1. Introduction: what is risk and why is it important for environment, governance and society
2. Risk and social theory
3. Risk assessment: how science turns fateful hazards into calculable uncertainties for risky decisions
4. Controversy at the science-policy interface
5. Risk perceptions, why they vary and why this matters
6. How we regulate: risk regulation regimes and their instruments
7. Governing ‘through’ risk: using ‘risk-based’ instruments for ‘better regulation’
8. Public and sectoral politics of governing risk
9. The Precautionary Principle
10. Risk, governance and international trade disputes

Module description disclaimer

King’s College London reviews the modules offered on a regular basis to provide up-to-date, innovative and relevant programmes of study. Therefore, modules offered may change. We suggest you keep an eye on the course finder on our website for updates.

Please note that modules with a practical component will be capped due to educational requirements, which may mean that we cannot guarantee a place to all students who elect to study this module.

Please note that the module descriptions above are related to the current academic year and are subject to change.