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#420 – Annie Jacobsen: Nuclear War, CIA, KGB, Aliens, Area 51, Roswell & Secrecy

Lex Fridman Podcast

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Nuclear Command and Control: The Tension of Decision-Making

This chapter explores the intricate workings of intelligence agencies and their insights into nuclear weaponry, with a particular focus on the CIA's understanding of Russian missile capabilities. It provides a detailed look at the 'nuclear football' and the critical command and control systems in place during crisis scenarios, highlighting the psychological burdens faced by leaders in decision-making processes. Additionally, the chapter addresses the historical context and contemporary relevance of nuclear deterrence and the mechanisms that ensure a nation can respond to evolving threats.

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