Part 14/17:
Nuclear power inevitably faces criticism following accidents like Chernobyl or Fukushima. Often, the industry reacts defensively, counteracting safety concerns with regulatory overreach or fear-mongering. Kugelmass argues that much of this is a distortion rooted in regulatory agencies prioritizing existing plants' profits—the so-called rent-seeking—rather than fostering innovation.
He emphasizes that well-designed reactors can be made inherently safe, with features that prevent accidents or mitigate their impact. Modern designs, especially those utilizing passive safety systems, substantially reduce risk. Public misconceptions about radiation and nuclear hazards persist but are based on irrational fears that misrepresent the actual risks involved.