Nuclear power: Between faith and fear

Nuclear power: Between faith and fear

from Web Edition | Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists by Sharon Squassoni

Roundtable Topic: Is nuclear energy different than other energy sources?
Several years ago, an American utility executive said, "Nuclear energy is a business, not a religion." This was a refreshing change from the usual ardent support or criticism of nuclear energy. To most people, the nuclear landscape looks quite different. Nuclear energy is not seen as just another way to boil water, and that is precisely why it usually evokes an almost religious faith or fear.