Nuclear security

Why focus on this problem?

Brian is currently the Director of Technology Ethics at the Markkula Center for Applied Ethics, his work is focused on the ethics of emerging technology.

We have been living in a world of nuclear weapons since 1945. We have been incredibly fortunate that these weapons have not been used in anger since then, but we believe the world is dangerously complacent about the risks of a nuclear conflict. The threat of nuclear war doesn't raise the same amount of public attention as it did in the cold war, but the risks are just as great today, if not more so. Although there is an appearance of nuclear stability, nuclear command and control systems are surprisingly vulnerable to fatal errors from individuals, cyber attacks, and equipment malfunctions. We believe there is much we can do to solve these problems - after all, humans created this problem and humans can solve it.

Thoughtful and non-controversial policies could substantially reduce the risk of a nuclear exchange. Moreover, a nuclear-weapon-free world is a world closer to the kingdom of God. Christians are called to be peacemakers. A nuclear exchange would cause a humanitarian disaster with widespread sickness, famine and destruction, on a scale unprecedented in history.  Even though a nuclear war is not certain, the magnitude of disaster if it should happen means it is well worth our attention. 

What does an impactful career in nuclear security look like?

Rose Gottemoeller was the former Under Secretary of State and was chief negotiator of the NEW START treaty. This was a major breakthrough in nuclear stability between Russia and the US. Check out her full career journey here.

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