Nuclear Reactor Safety

Abstract

It has been remarked that all technology is a Faustian bargain. Man obtains conveniences and sometimes luxuries, but in exchange he sets an increased potential for catastrophe. The more successful a techology is, the more man depends on it, and the higher the stakes become. Nowhere does this cautious view of technology apply better than to nuclear energy. There is rapidly increasing national commitment to nuclear power. In a few years the existing investments in nuclear power installations will be so massive that major changes in design or siting policies will have become virtually impossible. This article stresses the problems that exist with the current nuclear power policy, the problems that exist with the AEC. The author states that now is the time to deal with the major public health and safety problems related to nuclear power. He states that responsibility for this nation's nuclear power policy should not be left entirely up to the federal executive branch or even Congress, but state governments, scientists, and even private citizens should educate themselves in this area and take an active part in the formulation of the national nuclear power policy.