absence of proof

[Michael Stabin <stabin@NPD.UFPE.BR>]

>In this case, the linear model proponents tell us
>that Bernie Cohen's experimental data must be wrong because they do not
>agree with their model!  Talk about getting the cart in front of the
>horse!

But there is precedence for this approach.  See the Federal Register, Vol
56, No. 138, Thursday, July 18, 1991, p 33055, EPA reply to comment 4, which
read "What relative emphasis should be placed on the epidemiology data and
modeled risk estimates for evaluating radium risks?"  The reply, in part:
"EPA policy, supported by recommendations of the SAB/RAC, is to assess
cancer risks from ionizing radiation as a linear response.  Therefore, the
use of the dial painter data requires either deriving a linear risk
coefficient from significantly non-linear exposure-response data, or
abandoning EPA policy and SAB/RAC advice..."

Stabin
Brasil


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