The origins of research projects, the duties of supervisors and research workers, the subjective elements in research and the difficulties of publication are reviewed, as a guide to the complexities of executing an honest research project. It is assumed that research carried out with maximal intellectual integrity will result in real advances.

The concept of parafraud is described as “illogical or improper behaviour towards other peoples’ views or publications,” and 19 different kinds of common practices coming under this heading are listed. Ways of combating it are suggested.

His particular research interests are in the area of risk communication and management, especially as to how it affects and influences the making of the nation’s energy and environmental policies.