Description

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This book investigates the role of incomplete knowledge, social trust and risk perceptions in influencing acceptance of the perceived risks related to insurers using genetic test results. In addition, the author identifies and explains the factors and conditions that affect this risk acceptance pattern. In order to do so, both survey methods and semi-structured interviews are employed. A review of the 'necessity' of life insurance companies to acquire genetic test results is undertaken, followed by an analysis of the speculated consequences of such usage for society. Management of the risks related to insurers using genetic test results is examined and the problems and difficulties inherent in the risk management strategies, suggested and enforced, are explored. This is followed by a comparison between the societal risks produced by insurers using genetic test results and the risks theorised as pertaining to a 'risk society' (Beck, 1992) and a 'runaway world' (Giddens, 1990, 1999).

About the Author

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Louise Morris is a Lecturer in Risk Management and Insurance at the University of Limerick, Ireland. Louise's key research interests lie in the fields of life insurance, risk management and insurance law. Her research to date has focused particularly on risk and uncertainty in regulation, social trust, risk perceptions and risk acceptance.