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Revisiting the nuclear power option.

Article Excerpt
Technologies can be "hot buttons" for controversy, especially if it has anything to do with nuclear energy. Undoubtedly, nuclear power plants generate a significant portion of our nations electricity, and to shut them down would impose severe shocks to the economy and our electricity bills. Such plants do have some very important benefits such as no greenhouse gas emissions, no use of petroleum fuels, and no dependence on foreign sources for fuel supply. But in the heat of philosophical battle, opposing sides don't always hear each other or listen without bias.

If there is anything that will impact how technology is accepted, it is likely to be the public's preconceived notions and how the popular press in all its forms (print, TV, radio) influences their opinions. It is often many times more powerful than any technological fix that scientists or engineers can apply. The challenge for your class here is to revisit this controversial power-generation option and develop ideas for reinvigorating this technology.

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