FOREWORD

In American democracy one of the fundamental principles is that the people shall know what is happening and what is likely to happen. Freedom of information -- the right to know -- is implicit in the American system. It is for that reason that our government and the public officials and scientists involved, are backed by public opinion when it reveals all that it can about atomic energy that can be told without giving aid and comfort to a potential enemy.

This right and duty to publish what the people wish to know and should know motivates this book, as it does the whole civilian defense program of our nation confronted by atomic danger from without.

The facts within this book and the conclusions reached, not always pleasant and reassuring, will serve to alert and safeguard not alone the ordinary citizen, but many members of the great body of public officials, ranging from those in villages to the Federal Government itself.

The information conveyed in this book is of necessity a part of the American scene today. Those of us who have to confront the dangers of atomic attack should rejoice that we at least, unlike those behind the Iron Curtain, have some immunizing appreciation of these dangers. When danger is known, something can be done about it. Ignorance is a breeder of false security. We are convinced here in America that the right to know is as precious as our strength to resist the forces in the world which would like to enslave us in ignorance.

WATSON DAVIS
Director, Science Service