Dies Quote by John Kenneth Galbraith
“Get the process of negotiation away from the small specialized group that some people have called the "nuclear theologians" ... Only a few people can understand the nature of these weapons ... This kept the whole discussion to a very limited group of people who, in a way, had assumed responsibility for saying whether we should live or die.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Affluent Society by John Kenneth Galbraith, 1958
Nuclear weapons discussions are confined to a tiny elite, limiting democratic oversight and moral responsibility.
In simple terms: Only a few experts control nuclear policy, excluding the public.
Key Takeaway
Broaden participation in nuclear policy debates.
Themes
nuclear policy
democracy
expertise
ethical responsibility
Mood
serious
urgent
inquisitive
Type
policy
analysis
When to use this quote
- international negotiations
- public forums
- educational outreach
- policy reform
Key Concepts
public engagement
transparency
global security
Questions to Reflect On
- How can we make nuclear discussions accessible?
- What mechanisms ensure broader accountability?
A Different Perspective
Technical complexity can hinder meaningful public involvement.
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