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The Bomb and National Security: An Insight into a Progressive Perspective

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: Unraveling the Complexities

In today's world, the concept of national security continues to shape numerous geo-political discussions, but what role does the bomb play in this context? While some consider the use of nuclear weapons as essential for safeguarding nations, progressive thinkers provide an alternative perspective. In this thought-provoking article, we will delve into the progressive case surrounding the bomb and its implications on national security.

Born Secret: The H-Bomb, the Progressive Case, and National Security

by Gerald E. Marsh (Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1722 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	432 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

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The Bomb: A Historical Account

Before exploring the progressive stance on the bomb, it is important to understand its origins. The development of nuclear weapons during World War II marked a turning point in human history. The devastation caused by the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki in 1945 made the entire world aware of the destructive power held within these weapons.

The Progressive Case: Questioning the Status Quo

Progressives generally argue that the possession and potential use of nuclear weapons undermine national security in several ways. Firstly, the very existence of such weapons increases the risk of accidental or unauthorized detonation, especially in an era marked by heightened cyber warfare and evolving threats.

Secondly, the cost of maintaining and modernizing nuclear arsenals is exorbitant. Progressive advocates claim that allocating such vast resources to weapons of mass destruction diverts funding from vital social programs, including education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation.

Thirdly, the proliferation of nuclear weapons to multiple countries expands the chances of an armed conflict with catastrophic consequences. As more nations acquire these weapons, the possibility of non-state actors obtaining them also increases.

Reimagining National Security: A Progressive Vision

Progressives propose a comprehensive reimagining of national security, emphasizing diplomacy, international cooperation, and investment in non-military solutions to global challenges. By reducing military spending and reallocating resources, they argue for addressing the root causes of conflicts, such as inequality, climate change, and resource scarcity.

Furthermore, tackling nuclear disarmament becomes crucial in the progressive vision. Advocates push for global treaties that foster disarmament and aim to denuclearize regions piece by piece, ensuring that nations work towards a world free of nuclear weapons.

Addressing Concerns: Balancing Idealism and Realism

While the progressive case for national security offers an inspiring and morally grounded perspective, critics argue that it may overlook certain real-world complexities. Balancing idealism with realism becomes imperative to find a middle ground that ensures safety and international stability.

Additionally, addressing the concerns of countries already possessing nuclear weapons becomes essential. Engaging in global disarmament requires careful negotiations, confidence-building measures, and guaranteeing alternative security mechanisms before asking nations to abandon their nuclear capabilities.

The Way Forward: Forging a New Global Consensus

The pursuit of national security is a shared responsibility that requires cooperation, dialogue, and the exchange of ideas. By engaging in open discussions and involving various stakeholders, progress can be made towards a safer world without relying on the bomb for security.

In , the progressive case on the bomb and national security offers a fresh perspective that challenges traditional narratives. By questioning the role and significance of nuclear weapons, progressive thinking fosters a reimagining of national security, emphasizing diplomacy, disarmament, and global cooperation.

As we navigate the complexities of our world, it is vital to embrace diverse viewpoints and seek innovative solutions. Only through open-mindedness and a commitment to collective security can we forge a safer and more sustainable future for generations to come.

Born Secret: The H-Bomb, the Progressive Case, and National Security

by Gerald E. Marsh (Kindle Edition)

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	1722 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	432 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

Thirty years ago, the World Wide Web was yet to be developed, the rampant spread of information (and misinformation) over the Internet was still to occur. Moreover, WikiLeaks – an international organization publishing private, secret, and classified information -- hadn’t been launched.

Back in the 1970s and 80s, the spread of nuclear weapons seemed inevitable, the arms race was accelerating, and the likelihood of nuclear war was increasing, especially with President Ronald Reagan’s upcoming hard line in dealing with what he labeled the “evil empire,” the Soviet Union. Nuclear proliferation was being fueled by the superpower arms race.

Born Secret was the first book to look at the widely publicized Progressive case -- the U.S. government’s unprecedented attempt to prevent publication of a magazine article on hydrogen-bomb design culled by a journalist from unclassified, openly published material. The authors examined implications this celebrated case held for civil liberties, national security, and nuclear proliferation. This still-relevant history is now made available in eBook form.

In March 1979 the U.S. government moved dramatically to stop publication in the Progressive magazine of an alleged H-bomb design culled by a freelance journalist from unclassified, openly published material.

The government’s legal action, taken under the “classified at birth” (the so-called “born secret” section of the U.S. Atomic Energy Act) was the first (and still the only) case of extended prior restraint in American history against the press.

Born Secret examines the implications that this landmark case. The authors were eminently qualified to write the book: all having been nuclear physicists who gave the Progressive the original technical review of its H-bomb article and who later defended its right to publish.

In a clear and absorbing way the authors offer provocative insight into:
* the complete behind-the-scenes story of the case and how it evolved;
* the press vs. the government, and society’s need to know;
* an expert view – in plain English – of Cold War national-defense systems, from the H-bomb to the MX missile, and how excessive nuclear secrecy distorted a free society;
* why the risks of nuclear proliferation were then more far-reaching than the government would admit;
* the politics of government secrecy in conflict with the U.S. Constitution’s First Amendment.

Both during and after the case, the authors sharply criticized the government, not only for invoking prior restraint but for ultimately increasing the threat to American national security.

Only authors with technical expertise and inside information could provide the kind of coverage and analysis of the issues Born Secret has given. As nuclear physicists on the staff of Argonne National Laboratory (a U.S. government nuclear laboratory operated by the University of Chicago), they served as expert consultants in defending the Progressive against a court injunction to prevent publication.

All of the authors had advanced degrees in nuclear physics or engineering. All engaged in theoretical and experimental studies at Argonne involving nuclear reactions and materials.

Congressman Paul N. McCloskey: “This book addresses one the most important issues of our time -- what restrictions, if any, the danger of nuclear holocaust should impose on freedom of speech.”

Ruth Adams, Editor, Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists: “Among the many unfortunate side effects of the development of nuclear weaponry have been the imposition and spread of secrecy in government. This often unnoticed but increasing threat to our democratic traditions receives a blunt, authoritative and important challenge in BORN SECRET.”