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.

This unique book illustrates that in order to address the growing urgency of issues around environmental and resource limits, it is clear that we need to develop effective policies to promote durable changes in behavior and transform how we view, and consume, goods and services. It suggests that in order to develop effective policies in this area, it is necessary to move beyond a narrow understanding of 'how individuals behave', and to incorporate a more nuanced approach that encompasses behavioral influences in different societies, contexts and settings.The editors draw together analyses and case studies from across the globe and from multi-disciplinary perspectives in order to offer a broad-based psychological, sociological and economic understanding of consumer behavior. The expert contributors, from both academic and practitioner backgrounds discuss in detail the barriers, challenges and opportunities that face governments in relation to policy and actions at local, national and supranational levels. This fascinating book will prove a thought-provoking read for academics, researchers and students in the fields of environmental studies - particularly sustainability - and public policy. Practitioners and policy makers concerned with achieving sustainable lifestyles will find this book an invaluable reference tool. Contributors: W. Abrahamse, C. Ashton-Graham, S.C. Bhattacharyya, M. Brugidou, R. Clift, J. de Groot, S. Emmert, A. Farsang, S. Fudge, I. Garabuau-Moussaoui, C. Hicks, A. High-Pippert, S.M. Hoffman, M. Kuhndt, H. Luiten, E. Manzini, S. Milne, P. Newman, L. Reisch, E. Sto, P. Strandbakken, Y. Strengers, M. van de Lindt, W. Wehrmeyer

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.

People have long been captivated by the beauty of gems, from diamonds and sapphires to rubies and emeralds. Kids will be interested to know how these precious rocks form. Through this helpful book, young gem lovers will understand the crystal structure that many gems have and how beautiful rocks form in nature.