Arguments that Count - Physics, Computing, and Missile Defense, 1949-2012

How differing assessments of risk by physicists and computer scientists have influenced public debate over nuclear defense. In a rapidly changing world, we rely upon experts to assess the promise and risks of new technology. But how do these experts make sense of a highly uncertain future? In In the 1950s, scientists recognized that high-speed computers would be needed to cope with the unprecedented speed of ICBMs. But the nation''s elite science advisors had no way to analyze the risks of computers so used physics to assess what they could: radar and missile performance. Only decades later, after establishing computing as a science, were advisors able to analyze authoritatively the risks associated with complex software--most notably, the risk of a catastrophic failure. As we continue to confront new threats, including that of cyber attack, Slayton offers valuable insight into how different kinds of expertise can limit or expand our capacity to address novel technological risks.

About the author

Rebecca Slayton is a Lecturer in Public Policy and Junior Faculty Fellow at the Center for International Security and Cooperation at Stanford University.

Product details

• Authors: Rebecca Slayton
• Publisher: The MIT Press
• Languages: English
• Product format: Paperback / Softback
• Released: 31.10.2023
• EAN: 9780262549578
• ISBN: 978-0-262-54957-8
• No. of pages: 344
• Subjects: Natural sciences, medicine, IT, technology > Natural sciences (general); HISTORY / Military / General, TECHNOLOGY & ENGINEERING / Military Science, TECHNOLOGY & ENGINEERING / History, 21st Century, 21st century, c 2000 to c 2100, Later 20th century c 1950 to c 1999, History of engineering and technology, History of engineering & technology, Ordnance, weapons technology, War and defence operations, War & defence operations, c 1945 to c 2000 (Post-war period)