Howwould you reconcile the two observations below regarding the precautionary approach as a decision-making framework (Russell 2005):

(a) Making the precautionary principle the norm would encourage scientific responsibility in developing new technologies, rather than encouraging the economic interests of large corporations from dictating what is and is not safe. Particularly given how much is now documented about the harms various chemicals and activities can cause, it makes sense for all scientific research to consider fully its potential adverse impacts.

(b) The precautionary principle would merely discourage research and development, rendering it costly and impractical. Innovation and experimentation is the lifeblood of the American economy and value system.

Stymieing these efforts is in no one’s best interests, and if adopted unilaterally it will merely give other countries a lead in technology.