Abstract
THE ability to release atomic energy gives mankind great new powers. These powers can be used for good or ill. The first use of atomic energy was as a bomb the explosion of which stopped short a tragic war with the probable net saving of some million of lives. Its terrific military destructiveness has made it necessary for us to consider afresh how we may avoid future wars. The dramatic demonstration of its explosive power has directed attention away from the significance of atomic energy to our industry, our habits of life and our culture. It is in such peace-time consequences that atomic energy will eventually mean most to man.
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COMPTON, A. ATOMIC ENERGY AS A HUMAN ASSET*. Nature 157, 146–151 (1946). https://doi.org/10.1038/157146a0
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/157146a0