Precautionary Principle

The Precautionary Principle argues that uncertainty should be a trigger for caution when it comes to technological advances.

The most widely-accepted version of the principle comes from the Wingspread Statement (January 23-25, 1988, at Wingspread in Racine, Wisconsin):

"When an activity raises threats of harm to human health or the environment, precautionary measures should be taken even if some cause and effect relationships are not fully established scientifically. In this context the proponent of an activity, rather than the public, should bear the burden of proof. The process of applying the Precautionary Principle must be open, informed and democratic and must include potentially affected parties." (http://www.biotech-info.net/rachels_586.html)

It's opposite is the Pro-Actionary Principle.