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Freakonomics Radio

516. Nuclear Power Isn’t Perfect. Is It Good Enough?

Sep 22, 2022
Joshua Goldstein, a political science expert advocating for nuclear energy, joins Matthew Neidel, an economist delving into public health and policy, and Craig Mazin, writer of the 'Chernobyl' series. They explore the balance of nuclear power as a climate solution versus its risks. Insights on harm reduction strategies used in health policies are compared to energy solutions. The conversation also addresses public perceptions shaped by media portrayals of disasters, emphasizing the importance of informed debate regarding the future of nuclear energy.
54:16

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Quick takeaways

  • Harm reduction approach in opioid crisis aligns with tackling climate change.
  • Global perspectives on nuclear power reveal diverse socio-political influences.

Deep dives

Harm Reduction in Drug Policy and its Impact

The U.S. government's emphasis on harm reduction as a strategy in drug policy is reflected in various initiatives. Doctor Rahul Gupta, the Director of National Drug Policy, highlights the importance of reducing harm from illicit drugs at a national and global level. This approach involves saving lives through strategies like access to naloxone to prevent overdose deaths, acknowledging opiate use disorder as a treatable condition, and advocating for safe drug consumption spaces. The focus on reducing drug-related harms aligns with efforts to address the opioid epidemic and prioritize public health realism over traditional 'just say no' campaigns.

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