Is Distinction Impossible?: Comparing Risks between Radioactive Waste Facilities and Nuclear Power Stations

This paper explores whether people can distinguish among different risks. People are frequently regarded as rational beings who judge distinct risks differently. However, there are few risk studies analyzing the judgment of risk distinction. Hence, our study explores whether people distinguish between the risks of Nuclear Power Stations (NPS) and Radioactive Waste Facilities (RWF), and who has the ability to distinguish risk. Our analysis is based on empirical survey data from a sample of 816 people. First, according to value-differentiation, we divide the respondents into two groups, discriminate and indiscriminate, running a logistic regression to determine who is included in each group. Second, to know the object-differentiation by which people discern between the two risks, we create four groups. By logistic regression, we analyze what kinds of factors contribute to determining the probability of inclusion in each of the four groups. Third, to determine the effects of distinctive judgments, we analyze risk estimation, risk image, and the possibility of flexible negotiation according to four classified groups. In short, this study suggests that there are structural factors that determine distinctive judgments. Moreover, we demonstrate that those discretionary factors influence the interpretation of risk estimation and image, and determine the possible actions.