What the public wants to know (getting their attention)
Indeed, the more one reflects on this question, the clearer it becomes that one will never be able to bring the public around to a full support of things nuclear until they truly understand the incredible benefits inherent in this marvelous technology. Arguments centered on low risk will continually fall on either deaf or skeptical ears until the public is awakened to the enormous benefits they already derive from nuclear technology. Tempting though it may be to spent time and energy formulating and defending issue statements, the reality is that the public and most policy makers will simply not pay attention until they become aware of how ubiquitous radiation has become in enriching their daily lives. But, how does one get their attention? How can nuclear technologists penetrate the apathy that is exemplified by the glazed eyes normally encountered whenever one attempts to reach meaningful numbers of the public? How does one get the attention of the American people in a positive sense? Whereas one dare not make premature claims, the authors two activities that hold instant appeal to most Americans: (a) publicizing a real hero and (b) holding a celebration. It was on this premise that a decision was made in May 1998 to launch the concept of celebrating the centennial discovery of radium by Marie Curie. The initial response has been no less than staggering. Why? How could an event associated with things nuclear garner such positive attraction? Since the main events are not scheduled to take place until the year 2000, it is too early to claim success. But, by featuring the most famous female scientist of modern times, combined with a natural time of celebration, they believe they have successfully created a combination that has almost a magical attraction. People hearing of the project for the first time naturally begin to ask questions and explore possibilities, and the enthusiasm becomes contagious. They all known they have a powerful story to tell, if only they can get people to listen. The present project may provide a clue in learning how to create awareness. Once focused, the audience is ready to behold the enormous benefits that radioactivity has to offer. Will it really work? It could depend upon your response. Since originating this project, the Eagle Alliance has spearheaded the exhibit portion of this project and has obtained permission to take the Marie Curie exhibition around the US on tour.
- Research Organization:
- Texas A and M Univ., College Station, TX (US)
- OSTI ID:
- 20005803
- Journal Information:
- Transactions of the American Nuclear Society, Vol. 81; Conference: American Nuclear Society 1999 Winter Meeting, Long Beach, CA (US), 11/14/1999--11/18/1999; Other Information: PBD: 1999; ISSN 0003-018X
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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