A cult is a group that engages in "coercive persuasion" and for 65 years that's been true of the US atomic energy establishment. Our nuclear cult has six defining characteristics: First, people are placed in a "physically or emotionally distressing situation;" citizens are warned that if we don't build nuclear power plants we will run out of electricity. Second, legitimate concerns are dissuaded by "one simple explanation;" we're assured that our nuclear priests are smarter than the rest of us and their "science" will solve all problems. Third, converts typically fall under the spell of a "charismatic leader;" for four decades, Edward Teller mesmerized Washington with his exaggerated atomic energy claims, "nuclear power will be too cheap to meter." (Teller was the model for Kubrick's "Dr. Strangelove".) Fourth, adherents savor a new powerful identity; the US prides itself as being part of an exclusive nuclear "club." Finally, cult members are isolated and "their access to information is severely controlled." This, of course, is what has happened in Japan, where dissenting opinions were stifled and in many cases vital information was withheld; for example, what has happened to the fuel at Fukushima Daiichi reactor four.
As is the case with most cults, America's nuclear priesthood has insisted upon special privileges. Thus, builders of American nuclear plants are granted legal immunity from lawsuits in the event of catastrophic events. And even when new information arises that would question facility safety, nuclear plant operators are give a free pass, told they do not have to submit to new tests or rules. (For example, they've ignored the new fault by California's Diablo Canyon Nuclear Reactor.)
For 65 years the US has been the victim of coercive persuasion administered by our nuclear priesthood. In light of the horrific Fukushima Daiichi events, it's time for Americans to be deprogrammed. It's time for us to kick our atomic-energy addiction and close all of our nuclear plants.
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