Two Perspectives on Civilian Nuclear Energy in the United States

Nuclear power as a civilian energy tool has been a thoroughly debated subject for decades, as nations across the globe seek to expand their nuclear energy sectors and develop a strong presence in this emerging market. Those in favor of nuclear energy point out how it is able to provide large-scale, reliable electricity that emits no carbon dioxide, making it an appealing option for nations looking for sustainable energy. On the other hand, skepticism of the implications of expanding nuclear energy and fear of its potential use as a military weapon have steered many away from supporting its usage. While the United States initially led the development of nuclear technology in the twentieth century, public safety concerns coupled with strict regulations have resulted in the decline in the United States’ nuclear industry in recent decades, thereby reducing the nation to a minor competitor in the market. Nevertheless, many nations are implementing nuclear technology as both a sustainable solution and a strategic foreign policy tool, making a discussion on the subject immensely relevant