Books in the Energy and Environmental Policy Series series

The Politics of Energy Research and Development examines and evaluates U

Promoted as a form of limitless, low-cost energy without the polluting effects of its fossil fuel counterparts, nuclear power has enjoyed unparalleled support in several countries. Despite the development of an extensive set of policy and institutional mechanisms to foster its use, nuclear technology has been troubled by a wide range of problems and continues to pose risks many believe are far greater than society should accept. The legacy of failure ranges from catastrophic accidents like that at Chernobyl to the declaration of bankruptcy by the Washington Public Power Supply System. ''Governing the Atom'' explores why support for the technology remains substantial. The first part of this volume examines the social institutions that have accompanied the development of nuclear power. The second part details the numerous accommodations which have been required of society, beginning with the technology''s impact on communities and geographic regions particularly affected by mining and milling. The technology''s inherent tendency towards "normal accidents" and the conflict between expert and public opinion on the dangers involved is examined, as are the on-going problems of waste disposal and decommissioning. The volume concludes with an examination of nuclear power developments in France, Germany, Russia and the Commonwealth of Independent States, Eastern Europe, Korea, and Japan. The volume provides a needed vehicle for the timely consultation and dissemination of current research on important energy policy issues. ''Governing the Atom'' provides insightful commentary regarding the initiation and development of nuclear technology. It will be of interest to policymakers, energy and environmental experts, sociologists and historians of technology, and all those interested in the problem of democracy in a technological society.

Green Energy Economies offers insight into the major drivers that are shaping a new future powered by clean energy sources

In 1934, Lewis Mumford critiqued the industrial energy system as a key source of authoritarian economic and political tendencies in modern life

Including theoretical inquiries and case studies by distinguished writers, this book offers an engagement of the social issues surrounding energy conflicts and contradictions. Exploring the reflexive relationship between energy, environment, and society, it will be of interest to policymakers, and energy and environmental experts.

Challenges the conventional understanding of environmental justice within the context of globalization. The authors consider the links between expanded patterns of environmental injustice and the structures and forces underlying and shaping the political international economy.

Green Energy Economies offers insight into the major drivers that are shaping a new future powered by clean energy sources