An industrialized society is a dangerous one. It is, in fact, a toxic society. This has always been true, and was true before we developed certain chemicals and learned of the dangers they produced. Yet, many of the activities involved are exceedingly important socially. Some toxic substances are the byproducts of processes that society at large desires, or may even require.

From that point of view, it is obvious that our primary concern is cleanup: cleanup of the various waste sites that are lethal and that lack any social justification. But cleanup does not rid us from considering compensation. When it comes to the question of reimbursing persons for injuries, I am a radical. If our society can afford it, we should care for every human being who cannot afford to pay for his own disabilities or illnesses, or for the consequences of his death, such as leaving dependents.