Why the Bomb Is Bad for Democracy
A famous documentarian’s new book suggests that secrecy is a major impediment to sensible nuclear policy.
TL;DR
- Filmmaker Jon Else's new book, 'Frenchman Flat,' examines society's collective journey towards nuclear annihilation.
- The book argues that government secrecy surrounding nuclear weapons impedes effective democratic debate.
- The historical development of nuclear weapons, starting with the Manhattan Project, was shrouded in secrecy, limiting public knowledge and discussion.
- Despite initial proposals for international control and public discussion after WWII, secrecy and national interests prevailed, leading to the establishment of presidential control over the U.S. nuclear arsenal.
- The current global climate shows a dangerous expansion of nuclear arsenals and expiring arms control agreements, making the issue of secrecy and democratic oversight more critical than ever.