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We must not let ourselves be swept off our feet in horror…

“We must not let ourselves be swept off our feet in horror at the danger of nuclear power. Nuclear power is not infinitely dangerous. It's just dangerous, much as coal mines, petrol repositories, fossil-fuel burning and wind turbines are dangerous.” quote by David J. C. MacKay
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“We must not let ourselves be swept off our feet in horror at the danger of nuclear power. Nuclear power is not infinitely dangerous. It's just dangerous, much as coal mines, petrol repositories, fossil-fuel burning and wind turbines are dangerous.”

David J. C. MacKay

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

The quote argues that nuclear power is dangerous but not uniquely so, urging balanced risk assessment across energy sources.

In simple terms: Nuclear is dangerous, not uniquely.

Key Takeaway

Compare risks of all energy options.

Themes

energy policy risk assessment environment

Mood

analytical cautious

Type

technical policy-oriented

When to use this quote

  • energy planning
  • policy debate
  • infrastructure investment
  • public education

Key Concepts

systems thinking probability public perception

Questions to Reflect On

  • How should societies weigh short‑term vs long‑term energy risks?
  • What criteria best compare energy safety?
A Different Perspective

It may understate long‑term waste and accident impacts.

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