Making Sense with Sam Harris #186 — The Bomb
Feb 18, 2020
Fred Kaplan, a national security columnist for Slate and an expert on nuclear war, joins to discuss the chilling threat of nuclear conflict. They explore the nuances of nuclear deterrence, the perilous U.S. first-strike policy, and the implications of limited nuclear warfare. Kaplan shares insights on historical close calls, like the Cuban Missile Crisis, and reflects on presidential reactions, especially during Trump's tenure. The conversation delves into the moral and ethical dilemmas of nuclear strategy, emphasizing the weighty responsibilities of those in command.
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Petrov's Crucial Decision
- Stanislav Petrov, a Soviet officer, may have single-handedly prevented World War III in 1983.
- He didn't report a radar warning of incoming U.S. missiles, suspecting a false alarm.
Secret Deal of Cuban Missile Crisis
- The Cuban Missile Crisis resolution involved a secret deal: Soviet missiles removed from Cuba for U.S. missiles removed from Turkey.
- Kennedy accepted this deal against his advisors' wishes.
Presidential Apprehensions
- Every U.S. president since Kennedy has been shocked by existing nuclear war plans and wanted to change them.
- However, they've largely failed to alter the underlying game theory.
