Risk Assessment: The Role of Government in a Multiple Objective Framework

Abstract

One could argue rather persuasively that the only proper role of government is that of risk mitigation in a multiobjective framework. This might require broader or narrower definitions of these terms than their customary usage, particularly that of “proper,” but by and large these are precisely the kinds of interpersonal problems which long ago constituted the basis for the original creation of governments. It is admitted that such governments, once created, have commonly usurped broader roles, but the basic reasons for their existence and their character reflect a necessity for a community or group action to avoid or mitigate risks associated with accomplishing the many objectives of the people concerned.

The rain it raineth on the just and also on the unjust fella; But chiefly on the just, because the unjust steals the just’s umbrella.

Lord Bowen