For a critical sociology of risk.

Summary A quarter of a century after the publication of The Risk Society in Germany (Beck, 2001), social science research on risk in Europe presents a paradox. Judging by the number of journals, books, professional associations and conferences devoted to it, it is undoubtedly a dynamic sector. Moreover, the social sciences now have their place in risk governance mechanisms, alongside the disciplines more traditionally associated with the management of collective risks. However, this recognition is accompanied by a low level of criticism in the way risk objects, activities or situations are viewed. More significantly, since Beck's work, which proposed a genuine sociological theory, few authors have attempted such a conceptual effort. [first paragraph].