The narrative structure of risk accounts

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In this article, the author considers such risk warning signs as ‘Stand behind the yellow line’ paradigmatic of risk accounts and approaches these signs in the light of narrative theory, more specifically structural and post-structural narratology. There are three related purposes for this approach. First, it is to demonstrate the relevance of narratology for risk research. Second, it is to provide a formal understanding of the narrative structure of risk accounts. Third, it is to use this understanding to show that risk accounts are not politically neutral but define inauspiciousness and attribute blame and responsibility. In this way, risk warning signs participate in the everyday governance of risk and contribute to the governmental rationality that characterizes risk. Concluding remarks discuss some implications of a narrative understanding of risk accounts for risk communication and management and underscore the need to take narrative ethics into account.