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Radiolab
Nukes
Jan 24, 2025
Harold Herring, a former Air Force Major, shares his riveting journey navigating nuclear command, questioning the unchecked presidential authority over nuclear launches. Alongside nuclear historian Alex Wallerstein, they explore the moral dilemmas faced by military personnel tasked with following potentially unlawful orders. The conversation spans from Truman's ethical struggles to Nixon's alarming power, revealing the dangerous consequences of questioning authority while emphasizing the urgent need for checks and balances in nuclear decision-making.
52:27
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast highlights the significant concerns surrounding the lack of legal checks on presidential power to authorize nuclear strikes, demonstrating the potential for misuse of authority.
- Through the experience of Air Force Major Harold Herring, the episode explores the ethical dilemmas faced by military personnel in the nuclear command chain regarding their decision-making responsibilities.
Deep dives
The Naming of a Quasi Moon
A recent competition allowed individuals to propose names for one of Earth's quasi moons, resulting in widespread participation and engagement from the public. The winning name reflects a collective effort, showcasing how many contributed to naming a celestial body. This event is presented as a unique opportunity for people to feel connected to the cosmos and to each other through a shared experience. The initiative highlights the intersection of science and public involvement, emphasizing the excitement of naming something beyond our planet.
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