This book investigates the complex interplay between political, ethical, and legal frameworks governing the management of multi-valued human biological materials, specifically blood. It analyzes historical episodes of HIV blood contamination in the USA, England, and France to understand how risk governance becomes politicized and the subsequent consequences. The study delves into the role of the gift relationship in blood donation, the influence of scientific expertise, and innovations within the blood system's risk governance. Furthermore, it examines legal actions by affected patient groups and critiques the rise of precautionary and regulatory measures aimed at enhancing blood safety.

The book offers a detailed examination of the ethical, legal, and political dimensions of blood safety, drawing on significant historical contamination events. Its analysis highlights the complex factors contributing to the politicization of risk in public health. The work is likely to be of interest to scholars and practitioners in law, ethics, public health policy, and sociology. The detailed case studies and critique of regulatory strategies provide a robust framework for understanding contemporary challenges in risk governance.