precautionary principle

British  

noun

1. the precept that an action should not be taken if the consequences are uncertain and potentially dangerous

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Example Sentences

The people behind the Science policy forum report and the technical report make up an illustrious group including two Nobel laureates and other names not typically associated with risk aversion or the precautionary principle, such as that of Craig Venter, the thrill-seeking founder of the Human Genome project.

From Salon

The nation’s constitution, the judges found, required the government to follow the so-called precautionary principle of waiting to approve new crops and activities until scientists reach a consensus that they are safe for humans and the environment.

From Science Magazine

In his view, the precautionary principle calls for having compelling evidence that a solution to a problem is cost effective and not environmentally harmful—a standard he thinks Malusog Rice meets.

From Science Magazine

“I would take the precautionary principle and say, ‘OK, until we know what's going on, let's put a standstill on this,’” he says.

From Science Magazine

Though it’s not definitive that the more you color your hair, the greater your breast cancer risk, “a good precautionary principle is to lower your frequency of use,” White said.

From Seattle Times