The theory of reflexive modernization asserts that society has entered a new and radicalized form of modernity, in which the original institutions and social boundaries that characterise modern society are dissolving. One of the most prominent thinkers on this theory is Ulrich Beck, who in his book Risk Society claims that we are witnessing a social transformation that is as great as that when industrial society replaced feudal society. While industrial society was centred around the production and distribution of wealth, risk society is centred around the production and distribution of risks. These risks are human-caused, severe, transboundary and uncontrollable by early modern institutions and have therefore become a driving force in changing society. The theory of reflexive modernization and the notion of risk society have been vividly discussed in environmental sociology. Today, it is an established and well-referenced theory in environmental sociology as well as in risk sociology and social theory.