The DSR Network
WAGD: Nuclear Command and Control with Eric Schlosser, One of VP Candidate Tim Walz’s Recommended Authors
Aug 9, 2024
Eric Schlosser, a renowned journalist and nuclear expert, delves into the intricate world of nuclear command and control. He shares cautionary tales from his research, highlighting the precariousness of managing nuclear arsenals. Schlosser emphasizes the inherent risks of modernization and the danger of complacency, citing historical accidents stemming from secrecy. He stresses the urgent need for responsible governance and timely responses to threats, urging awareness of the escalating nuclear landscape that future generations will inherit.
31:32
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Quick takeaways
- Eric Schlosser underscores the enduring vulnerabilities in nuclear command and control systems, highlighting how minor incidents can lead to significant dangers.
- The podcast discusses the critical balance required in nuclear management to ensure rapid response while preventing unauthorized use, stressing the complexities involved.
Deep dives
The Relevance of 'Command and Control'
The discussion centers around the continued relevance of Eric Schlosser's book 'Command and Control', which thoroughly investigates the complexities and dangers of managing the nuclear arsenal. The book, originally published over a decade ago, remains pertinent due to ongoing nuclear modernization efforts and the inherent risks associated with these systems. Schlosser emphasizes that despite advancements, inherent vulnerabilities persist, as illustrated by historical nuclear incidents that often arose from trivial mishaps leading to catastrophic outcomes. The focus on Governor Tim Walz's book recommendation highlights a growing recognition among political figures about the importance of understanding nuclear safety and management.
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