Risk, Society and Governance (RIS515)

Content

This course introduces students to key concepts in risk analysis and governance as a field and science. The course focuses on theories on risk, risk perception, risk society, crisis, social construction, politics  and power, culture, trust and relationships between science, technology and risk.

Key subjects are how individuals perceive risks, risk communication, how organizations and institutions take part in and respond to different forms of communication, theories about organizational risk, globalization and risk in complex systems, what characterizes different types of crisis in society and how individuals and organisations respond to acute situations.   

Learning outcome

Knowledge:

After completing the course, the student will have basic knowledge about risk perception, risk communication and risk governance. The students will have knowledge of social processes through which risks are defined, why some risks are seen as acceptable and others not, how causes of accidents and disasters are constructed and how policies to control risks and manage crisis are developed.

Skills:

After completing the course students should have an understanding of ways in which risk and culture, power and trust are related and focusing on international and global issues be able to apply the theoretical approaches on risk problems in society.

General competence:

After the course, the students will be able to apply these theories and concepts in ways that support risk (safety, security) knowledge and tackling of risk (safety, security) problems in society. Students will also have a critical perspective on risk and be able to communicate problems and dilemmas associated with risks in society.

Required prerequisite knowledge

Exam

Coursework requirements

Course teacher(s)

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Method of work

Open for

Course assessment

Literature