Nuclear energy system for a sustainable development perspective — Self-Consistent Nuclear Energy System-

Abstract

In developing science and engineering and introducing it to society, it is not easy to view the future by studying technological aspects alone. However, the ongoing dispute over nuclear science and engineering seems to be biased too much toward technological aspects. We live in an age where technology cannot always solve all of our problems. Social or economic benefits are important factors to consider; society will not choose anything that lacks economic benefits. This point should be kept in mind from the beginning, namely, from the development stage. Although economic or social benefits are given a higher priority than technology, it is still difficult to view the future clearly. Scientific thinking that can develop into abstract or philosophical thinking will be more appropriate for viewing the future. At the turn of the century, scientific thinking should be developed to view the total picture of comprehensive nuclear science and engineering and its long-term perspective. This is the approach that society should support in determining the future direction of nuclear science and engineering as we head into the 21st century.