Radiation in Perspective: Applications, Risks, and Protection

Everyone on earth is exposed to natural radiation. Although radiation has many beneficial applications in medicine, industry, and research, it can be harmful to human beings. To protect humans, a thorough system of international principles and standards, as well as stringent national legislation have been put into place. However, radiation continues to be the subject of much public fear and controversy. This clearly written report, intended for the non-specialist reader, aims to contribute to an enlightened debate on this subject by presenting the most up-to-date and authoritative material available on sources, uses, and effects of radiation, and way sin which people are protected from its risks. It discusses the development of radiation protection measures, its internationally agreed principles, and also addresses social and economicissues such as ethical questions, risk perceptions, risk comparisons, public participation in decision-making and the cost of protection.