This study was aimed at identifying an evaluative factor in perceived
risk that was independent of the previously identified Dread and Knowl
edge factors. The methodology used was that developed by Slovic, Fisch
hoff, and Lichtenstein (1985a) with the addition of four new dimension
s: personal position, economic justification, justification through we
ll-being, and beneficial to society. This evaluative factor was identi
fied, and loads the four above-mentioned dimensions while excluding 11
others. This evaluative factor primarily emerges as a major determina
nt in subjects' demands for risk control legislation.