Water talk: An analysis of monopolies of knowledge, risk communication and potable water policy in British Columbia

Few in Canada were concerned about potable water until the Walkerton tragedy. Authorities at all levels have since pledged to strengthen water protection. British Columbia passed legislation intended to ensure the safety of its supply from "source to tap", and many municipalities have planned upgrades to their systems. Nevertheless, increasing numbers do not drink tap water but use bottled or filtered water instead. Why? Perception of risk depends on how, and by whom, it is communicated. Public practices indicate that drinking water policy and perceptions concerning risk are disconnected. Harold Innis' "monopolies of knowledge" and William Leiss' writings on the domination of nature and risk communication illustrate why this disconnect exists and Marshall McLuhan's "laws of media" are a method for identifying potential reversals of expected outcomes. This thesis addresses risk communication, analyses water policy and legislation, presents the results of a user survey, and makes recommendations for policy formation.