Convergence, Divergence, and Complexity in US and European Risk Regulation

National comparisons, whether of cuisine, driving habits, or law, are apt to provoke hurt feelings. The renewed interest of late in comparing US and European environmental policies has been spurred in part by a series of transatlantic conflicts -often rather acrimonious -over trade restrictions and international treaty language. The comparative studies themselves sometimes manifest unkind stereotyping. But there is much to be gained from comparative analyses, if they can be serious, respectful, and open-minded. Differences in regulatory policies can be the source of insight rather than discord. Our goal should be constructive dialogue and mutual learning.