Best of the Left - Leftist Perspectives on Progressive Politics, News, Culture, Economics and Democracy #1752 Reigniting the Nuclear Arms Race: Fat Man, Little Boy, and Donald Trump
5 snips
Nov 14, 2025 The podcast dives into the alarming prospect of a new nuclear arms race, especially under questionable leadership. It explores the troubling history and implications of the Doomsday Clock and reveals how the myth of nuclear deterrence is more dangerous than protective. Survivors from Hiroshima and advocates call for total disarmament, while analysts discuss the global repercussions of expanding arsenals in China and Russia. The conversation is rich with critiques of modern nuclear policies, the haunting legacy of atomic bombings, and the stark economic tradeoffs involved.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
New Nuclear Age Is Rising
- Global nuclear posturing and modernization are reversing decades of reductions and risk provoking a new arms race.
- Trump's talk of resuming tests would undermine non-proliferation norms and likely trigger reciprocal moves by Russia, China, and others.
Doomsday Clock As A Risk Barometer
- The Doomsday Clock compresses diverse existential risks into a single public signal about humanity's proximity to catastrophe.
- Its movements reflect nuclear risk, climate change, and disruptive technologies judged by leading scientists.
Push Beyond Mere Risk Reduction
- Reject the idea that nuclear deterrence is a safe policy and press for elimination rather than risk reduction alone.
- Demand taking weapons off high-alert and pursue treaties like the TPNW to remove nuclear options permanently.
