Synopses & Reviews
This new volume is an exploration of the political and policy issues that have influenced the development of nuclear power. In addition to a history of the nuclear industry, the main areas of current controversy are examined. These include economics, nuclear proliferation, radiation, reactor safety, and the disposal of nuclear waste. This wide-ranging and authoritative analysis reveals striking disparities between the negative perceptions generally held by the public, and the actual achievements of the nuclear industry. Alternative sources of energy, and the future role of nuclear power in light of the greenhouse effect and population growth are also surveyed.
Description
Includes bibliographical references (p. [391]-402) and index.
Table of Contents
PART I: Political Histories
1. The Broad Issues
2. Introducing the Nuclear Industries
3. Nuclear Power in a Context of Long-Term Planning (France and Japan)
4. Nuclear Power and Political Sensitivity (Sweden, Italy, Germany, Switzerland)
5. Three English Speaking Countries
PART II: The Main Policy Issues
6. Nuclear Power Economics
7. The Potential Weapons Link
8. Risk and Radiation
9. Reactor Safety and Nuclear Insurance
10. Managing Radioactive Waste
11. Public Acceptance or Public Reluctance?
12. The Energy Alternatives
13. The Global Greenhouse and Energy Policy