The reality and acceptance of risk.

EMBEDDED in human consciousness is an implicit awareness of a dilemma that pervades the life of man—the need to choose. Inextricably linked with this need to choose is the reality of risk. Daily physiological changes carry risks of cardiac rhythm change. However, to minimize these risks by recumbency confronts us with other more dysfunctional risks. To descend the stairs, to move to a place of work, or to play presents new risks. We disregard these risks. Risks are implicit in our lives. In view of the inevitability of risk, there is an increasing awareness of the futility of demanding zero risk in matters of public policy. The Delaney Amendment of 1953 that required a ban on substances with any potential for carcinogenesis has been succeeded by the Clean Air Act amendments of 1977. These amendments require that decisions be based on comparison of marginal cost with marginal benefits of pollution